Your Friends vs Your Date

You are in the throes of a thrilling new relationship. Perhaps you even suspect you have found "The One". Excited to introduce your sweetie to your closest pals, you get them all together, quite convinced that they will all adore one another. But, at times, that's when trouble starts to brew. Here are some ways to help bridge the gap...

Identify the problem

Jealousy, more often then not, is the culprit. Partners, for example, can become insecure - anxious how your childhood cronies know you better or have more influence on you than they do. If your pals are the ones who are disapproving, it could signal that they're concerned about how you are no longer part of the gang, especially if they're used to having you to themselves 24/7. On the other hand, such criticism could also signal a worry that your new sweetie simply isn't right for you. Find out what the issue exactly is.

Listen to their feelings - and explain yours

Even when the conflict isn't this serious, a frank conversation can help. Never assume that you know what's on another person's mind, so start by hearing what he or she has to say. You might begin with an open-ended question that gets the other person talking.

Be a cheerleader

Helping your friends or your partner understand each other's good traits can go a long way toward mending the split between them. If your partner expresses a dislike for a friend or friends, you could explain the significance of that person or people in your life.

Try to mediate, yet forge ahead

If your friends and your mate are willing to give one another a chance, you can try to help things along by letting them get acquainted slowly - and in their own way. Plan activities within your friend and mate's comfort zones, be it playing pool or going out for coffee.

Ultimately, it's your life

And if, after all your efforts, they are bent on not giving each other a chance, well, too bad! After all, your life is not meant to be whiled away in patching up. Live it up and love it up, but maintain the balance. Don't stop having fun for their sake.

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