The obnoxious friend.
The one who giggles too much.
The one who acts so fake.
In the best of worlds, your mate loves all of your friends for the unique people they are. (Disclaimer: My husband asked me to mention that he does like all my friends.) But when two people come together, each with their own group of friends, it is unlikely that both of you are going to love each other’s crew.
This can get awkward for your partner, you, and possibly even the friend who is the object of disdain. Following these tips can help ease the pain when you or your mate are not fans of the other’s play dates.
1. Don’t Mediate. Everyone can’t love everyone. Unless you’re a flower-power hippie child, it can be difficult not to occasionally get annoyed by another person. If your partner is annoyed by one of your friends, do not feel the need to intervene. Two people are allowed not to like each other’s company. This is not a character flaw of your partner or your friend. As long as they can behave like civil adults in public, live and let live.
2. ”If you don’t have anything nice to say…” If you are the one who can’t stand one of your partner’s friends, feel free to not tell your partner exactly how you feel. Be sensitive to the fact that the friend who giggles incessantly, the obnoxious friend, or the one you think is so fake has a special place in your partner’s heart. Follow the kindergarden playground rule – if you don’t have anything nice to say, don’t say anything at all.
3. Be Understanding. In the event one of your friends has really pissed off your mate, listen to them vent. Don’t interrupt by saying, “That’s just the way he is.” Listen and don’t take it as a personal attack. It is important to remember that the people you’ve hung out with for years on end are new personalities to your partner. It may take time to adjust to their personalities.
