You’ve probably heard people say, “Marry your best friend.” But what does that even mean? Does it mean you need to enjoy the same hobbies? Laugh at the same memes? Or does it mean you should be so close that you finish each other’s sentences?
The truth is, being best friends with your partner isn’t about sharing every single interest. It’s about having a deep connection, feeling safe with them, and knowing that—no matter what happens—you’re in this together.
So, how do you get there? How do you go from “in a relationship” to “ride or die besties”? Let’s dive in.
1. Talk Like Friends, Not Just Partners
Ever noticed how we talk to our friends differently than we do to our partners? With friends, we’re playful, easygoing, and honest. But sometimes, in relationships, conversations turn into problem-solving sessions, logistical planning, or (let’s be real) complaints.
Try bringing back that friendly energy into your conversations. Ask random, fun questions like:
- “If you could live in any fictional world, where would it be?”
- “What’s the weirdest thing you believed as a kid?”
- “If you had to pick a weird battle, would you rather fight one giant, overly aggressive pigeon or a hundred tiny but determined puppies?”
Silly? Yes. But that’s the point. Friendship thrives on lightheartedness.
2. Find Shared Joy in the Little Things
Remember when you and your best friend from school had inside jokes no one else understood? That’s what you want to create in your relationship. It doesn’t have to be grand gestures or expensive vacations—it’s about laughing at the same ridiculous reality show, sending each other the funniest (cringiest) memes, or having a made-up language for each other that makes absolutely no sense!
If you don’t already have rituals, start some! Maybe it’s a weekly “weird food” night where you try bizarre snacks, or a Friday evening walk where you both vent about your week. These small, silly traditions build closeness.
3. Be Each Other’s Safe Space
Friendship isn’t just about fun; it’s about feeling safe to be yourself. Think about your closest friends—why do you love them? Probably because they make you feel accepted, heard, and understood. Your partner should feel the same way about you.
That means listening—really listening—when they talk. Not just waiting for your turn to speak. Ask follow-up questions. Show them you care. If they’ve had a bad day, resist the urge to fix everything or speak you take on things– just say, “That sounds really tough. I’m here for you.” Sometimes, that’s all they need.
4. Laugh Together, A Lot
Research found that couples who laugh together have stronger, happier relationships. It shows how couples who engage in shared laughter report higher relationship satisfaction. Why? Because laughter creates bonding and diffuses tension.
Ever had a silly fight over something dumb, then one of you bursts out laughing? That’s the magic of humor. So, watch comedy specials together. Make fun of yourselves. Do terrible impressions of each other. It’s harder to stay mad when you’re both laughing. Don’t resist it!
5. Support Their Passions (Even If They’re Not Yours)
Best friends don’t have to like the same things—but they respect each other’s interests. Maybe your partner is obsessed with cricket, and you don’t know the first thing about it. Or they love painting, and your artistic ability stops at stick figures. That’s okay. You don’t have to share every passion, but showing interest means a lot.
Ask them about their hobbies. Watch a match with them. Go to an art supply store together. It’s these little acts that show, “I care about what makes you happy.” And when you do, they’ll likely reciprocate happily.
6. Be Honest, Even When It’s Hard
What do best friends do that acquaintances don’t? They tell the truth. If your best friend was making a huge mistake, you’d tell them, right? The same should apply to your relationship.
Being best friends with your partner means you can have tough conversations without fear of judgment. It’s about saying, “Hey, I didn’t love how you spoke to me earlier,” or “I feel like we haven’t spent much time together lately—can we fix that?”
No passive-aggressive hints. No silent treatment. Just real, open, honest communication. That’s what builds trust.
7. Have Your Own Lives, Too
Ever met a couple that does everything together? While it may seem cute, the healthiest relationships involve two whole individuals who love spending time together—but also have their own friends, hobbies, and interests.
Best friends don’t suffocate each other. They cheer each other on from the sidelines. So, encourage your partner to take that solo trip, join that club, or have a night out with their friends. It’ll make your time together even sweeter.
8. Be Playful, Even When Life Gets Serious
Life isn’t always fun. Bills, responsibilities, work stress—it can all be overwhelming. But that’s when being best friends matters most.
Find moments of playfulness, even in stressful times. Maybe you’re stuck in traffic together—blast a ridiculous song and have an impromptu car concert. Or turn grocery shopping into a game: who can find the weirdest product? These small, silly moments keep the friendship alive, even when life feels heavy.
9. Keep Learning About Each Other
You might think you already know everything about your partner, but people change. The person you’re with now isn’t the same person they were five years ago—and neither are you.
Make it a point to keep discovering each other. Ask deeper questions:
- “What’s a dream you’ve never told me about?”
- “If money weren’t a factor, what would you do with your life?”
- “What’s something you’ve learned about love that you didn’t know before?”
Staying curious about each other is a great way to sustain your friendship & emotional intimacy.
10. Celebrate Each Other’s Wins—Big or Small
Best friends hype each other up. They celebrate even the tiniest victories. If your partner gets a promotion, lands a new client, or even just finishes a tough week, acknowledge it. Say, “I’m so proud of you.” Send a “congrats” text. Take them out for their favorite meal.
Feeling seen and celebrated strengthens your bond. It reminds your partner that you’re in their corner, always cheering for them.
Perhaps being best friends with your partner matters– Why? Because being married to your best friend can double your happiness levels. Because friendship creates a foundation beyond just romance. Physical attraction can fluctuate, life can get messy, but friendship—that deep emotional connection—keeps relationships strong.
So, go ahead. Send that ridiculous meme. Start that weird tradition. Ask them a random, deep question tonight. You’ll be surprised at how much closer you feel.
After all, isn’t love just friendship with a little extra sparkle?
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