Making Opposite Sex

Friendships Work For You

Making Opposite Sex Friendships Work For You

Opposite sex friendships are becoming more common now that men and women
work side by side. A survey of members on the Match.com dating site found that 83% of
people believe that men and women can be platonic friends. Consider the benefits of
these relationships and learn strategies to make them work for you.

Benefits of Opposite Sex Friendships

1. Gain insights. One key advantage of cross-sex friendships is getting an inside look
at what men and women really think. This knowledge can help you prevent and
resolve conflicts in your personal life and in the workplace.

2. Talk things over.There is some truth in the stereotype that female friendships
tend to be based on talking about feelings while men are more activity oriented.
Female friends often provide men with an outlet for talking about sensitive
issues.

3. Share interests.Conversely, women often find that spending time with male
friends brings more fun into their life. It can be a relief to lighten up and enjoy
activities like hiking or photography.

4. Discover new aspects of yourself. Friends of the opposite sex can liberate you
to express a full range of qualities that may conventionally be considered
masculine or feminine. Dare to knit or watch football.

5. Widen your circle.Transcending the gender divide automatically gives you

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 twice as many potential friends. Many people find it more difficult to make
friends later in life, so welcome a bigger field.

6. Challenge media stereotypes. Hollywood sometimes seems behind the times.

You can help prove that men and women can be happy together without getting
romantically involved.

7. Promote equality.Breaking down gender barriers creates more choices for us

all. Let your friendships set a good example for the future.

8. Strengthen your romantic relationships. Some people start out as friends and
wind up as spouses. These partnerships can be especially strong and durable.

Strategies for Opposite Sex Friendships

1. Address sexual tension. Physical attraction may sometimes arise. The answer
is to deal with it openly and honestly. Be clear about your boundaries. Even if
you share a physical encounter that you come to regret, you may be able to bounce
back if you remain respectful of each other’s feelings.

2. Make friends with other couples. You might find it easiest to start out by
socializing with another couple. If you’re all compatible, you can maximize time
with your partner and your friends.

3. Reach out to new people.From the playground to cocktail parties, it’s natural
for men and women to drift off into their own groups. Make a conscious choice
to strike up a conversation with a member of the opposite sex. You may hit it
off.

4. Defuse jealousy.Accept that you or your partner may feel insecure about the

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 time you spend with other men and women. You could be projecting if you’ve
engaged in infidelity yourself. In any case, acknowledge your true thoughts and
figure out where they’re coming from.

5. Deal with naysayers.There may always be people who doubt that men and
women can spend time together and remain platonic. As long as you and your
partner are happy, stand behind your own decisions and try to be understanding of
the limitations of others.

6. Train your kids.Your kids learn from your example. Your friendships with the
opposite sex demonstrate skills they’ll need to get along with others and share
companionship and love.

Once upon a time women typically stayed home while men went off to work. In a
modern society, men and women have more opportunities for friendship and these
connections can enrich all our lives.

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