Dating Advice from Friends

The TV Show Friends, which finished recording back in 2004 is being played on Channel 5. In the interest of research, we’ve looked back at the love lessons that can be learnt from the six fictional friends.

*Warning – this post contains spoilers.

Never go back

The relationship between Janice and Chandler shows just how easy it is to lust after an ex and to have physical dalliances with them after you break up. However, it also shows that it is unhealthy to pursue a relationship with an ex no matter how much you want to be with them. Take the time to mourn the loss of the relationship and then move on to someone new.

Sharing the same life goals is important

Age-gap relationships can work if you are both willing to cope with the social stigma and if you are both looking for the same things from a relationship. However, for Richard and Monica, the age gap meant that they were at different stages in their lives and they could not make it work. Monica was keen to have a family, whereas Richard had already been married and had children of his own and did not wish to get married again.

Never say “we were on a break”

If you are in a relationship with someone, be in a relationship with them. If you want to date someone else, then you shouldn’t be with them and you should break up with them.

Shouting “we were on a break” just won’t cut it.

It takes time to meet someone special

Ross, Rachel, Phoebe, Chandler and Monica all dated lots of people before meeting their special someone. Even bad dates can teach you about who you are as a person and what you are looking for in a partner. Also, dating lots of different people will make you feel less nervous about meeting new people and it will allow you to try out your dating conversation.