There are a slew of phrases that girls eventually hear at some point in their lives. Amongst them are: “ Do you think this relationship is going anywhere?”, “If you’re happy, I’m happy”, “You can do better than him,” and of course, “I just don’t want to see you hurt”. Yes, that’s right, we’re talking about that boyfriend of yours who isn’t liked by your friends.
I don’t think you need me to tell you that you’re free to date any guy you want and no one, not even your friends, should get in your way. If your friends have very high expectations of who you should date, chances are they’re just looking out for your best interest. Your friends are obviously not going to agree with you all the time. Even if they don’t, in the end, it’s YOUR decision, not theirs; and if they disagree with it and can’t even accept it, then perhaps they are not your true friends.
According to an old saying, “An opinion is like a belly button – everyone’s got one.” I’ll add to it by saying that there are two types of opinions (as there are belly buttons): ones that are kept in (“innies”) and those that are shared outwardly (“outies”). It’s a silly little analogy, but your friend may perhaps be either an “innie” or an “outie”. You also might want to hear the opinion of your friend and consider their reason for not liking him. Maybe he’s a deadbeat, maybe they don’t like the way he loudly belches, maybe he tells insensitive jokes, or maybe they don’t like the way he speaks to you. If they constantly give out their opinions – and you’re not willing to accept them – and won’t shut up about it, then tell them that you don’t want to hear them anymore. Remember, however, to be courteous, not rude.
Of course, there are a few warnings that go with your friends not liking your significant other. We don’t always do what is in our best interest-sometimes we just go after the wrong guy. So, consider that your friends dislike your partner because they know what you want – and it’s just not him. Since you and your friends won’t always see eye-to-eye on everything, you don’t have to dump your guy because of their opinions. However, if your friends are afraid for you, then it’s important that you listen to them.
In the end, it’s your call. You can’t expect yourself to make the perfect decision, but you can certainly make one that will benefit you. Neither you nor your friends know what is best for you in the long haul.
