Friendship can lead down many different paths: some people stay friends for many years, and some develop into something more, like a relationship. Many believe that this is very beneficial to creating strong and trusting relationships, though others believe it can create a difficult switch.
According to The Gaurdian 68% of people begin their relationships as friends. Courtney Cowan ’27 believes that by already knowing the person prior to the relationship, shifting into a romantic relationship becomes easier.
“I think being friends with them before dating is really helpful for the relationship,” Cowan said. “You’re already super close with each other, and you already know a lot about each other, and it can just help the relationship thrive.”
Staying connected throughout the relationship is important in ways such as compromise, loyalty, kindness and making time for one another. English teacher Ericka Henk stresses the importance of making time for one another, or else you can just become roommates.
“We get so busy with family commitments and work commitments that I think that purposeful planning is incredibly important to a relationship in order to enjoy each other,” Henk said. “Whether a romantic relationship or friendships.”
Relationships come with sharing things with friends, such as sweet moments, big steps and even arguments. Cowan mentions how, though advice from friends can be helpful, having mutual friends involved can create larger issues.
“When I was in mine [relationship], it was very much like, ‘do not tell other people unless it involves other people,’” Cowan said. “So most of the arguments that we’d get into were very private.”
On the other hand, Sela Losier ’27 believes that seeking advice from those who know how your partner acts can be beneficial. Along with this, knowing the person prior to the romantic relationship can help you understand your partner during arguments.
“If you already kind of know how this person shows their feelings and discusses things with other people, especially people that they’re close to, then I feel you can kind of navigate through the argument a little easier,” Losier said.
The transition to that romantic relationship can also create an awkward middle space for those involved and around them. Losier explains that while it can make the relationship stronger, the transition period can be difficult.
“I think sometimes if you’re friends for too long, it can get awkward,” Losier said. “[It’s] not necessarily an issue, but it’s just it’s hard to then become something different.”
That friendship can help one choose if they want to continue with the relationship and develop it further. From learning who they are as a person and with others to eventually learning what they are like in a romantic environment.
“I think it’s nice when you see qualities of kindness and loyalty and that you’re ready to maybe take the next step,” Henk said.
