When people think about romantic relationships, the image that often pops into their heads is candlelit dinners, long walks on the beach, or the fluttery feeling of butterflies in the stomach. But, what if I told you that one of the most underrated aspects of a thriving romantic relationship is friendship? Yes, friendship!

Think about it. The people we choose as friends are those we feel comfortable around, who share our interests, who can laugh with us (and at us), and who support us through life’s ups and downs. If you inject those same qualities into a romantic relationship, you’re setting the foundation for something incredibly strong.

Let’s dive into how friendship is crucial in romance and why your partner should be your best friend.

1. Comfort and Trust
In a solid friendship, a level of comfort comes from knowing someone accepts you for who you are—flaws and all. Now, picture having that level of comfort in your romantic relationship. When your partner is also your friend, you feel safe being vulnerable. You don’t have to wear a mask or pretend to be someone you’re not. You can have serious heart-to-hearts or laugh until your stomach hurts, all without fear of judgment.

And trust? That’s the golden ticket! A relationship built on friendship has a stronger foundation of trust, making it easier to navigate challenges and misunderstandings.

2. Laughing Together
Have you ever had a relationship where things just felt too serious? Every conversation felt heavy or had a hidden agenda. That’s the last thing you want! One of the best things about friendships is the humor and lightheartedness. You can be silly, crack inside jokes, and make fun of each other without crossing boundaries. Imagine being able to laugh at each other’s weird habits or quirks, and not just tolerate them.

Friendship brings out the playful side of romance. It’s what makes staying in on a Saturday night to binge-watch your favorite show or play board games feel like the perfect date.

3. Shared Interests and Activities
Friends often have things in common, whether it’s hobbies, values, or lifestyle choices. When you’re in a romantic relationship where your partner is also your friend, those shared interests only make things more enjoyable. Maybe you both love hiking, trying out new foods, or geeking out over the latest Marvel movie. Doing things together that you both enjoy strengthens your bond and gives you more reasons to spend quality time with each other.

Plus, you don’t have to be stuck in a constant cycle of “date nights” that feel like they’re pulled straight from a romantic comedy. Sometimes, the best dates are spontaneous and centered around things you both genuinely love.

4. Being There Through Thick and Thin
True friends are there when life throws curveballs, and the same goes for romantic partners who are friends first. In relationships, it’s not all sunshine and rainbows. There will be difficult times—work stress, personal struggles, and maybe even conflicts within the relationship itself. Having a foundation of friendship means that when the going gets tough, you’re more likely to stick it out and support each other.

You become each other’s go-to person, not just for romantic gestures, but for genuine support. That makes all the difference when navigating life’s inevitable rough patches.

5. Communication is Easier
With friends, you can speak freely. There’s no fear of saying the wrong thing or starting an unnecessary argument because you both understand each other. This carries over beautifully into romantic relationships. When your partner is your friend, communication becomes more natural, honest, and open. You’re not walking on eggshells or tiptoeing around sensitive subjects.

You know how to have serious conversations when needed, but also when to lighten the mood with a joke or change the subject when tensions rise.

6. Mutual Respect
Friendship in a romantic relationship fosters mutual respect. You respect each other’s opinions, boundaries, and differences, just like you would with a close friend. This respect builds a healthy dynamic where both people feel valued and appreciated.

In relationships where there’s no friendship, it’s easy to slip into unhealthy power dynamics where one person feels controlled or disregarded. But when there’s friendship, there’s balance.

7. Longevity
Let’s face it—passion and chemistry can fluctuate over time. What keeps a relationship going strong is the deep connection and bond that comes from friendship. When the initial honeymoon phase fades, it’s the friendship that will carry you through. The emotional intimacy, shared experiences, and comfort you have with each other will be what sustains your love.

Over time, physical attraction may change, but a true friendship will only deepen, making the romance sweeter and more meaningful with every passing year.

8. Healthy Space
Friends understand that sometimes, you need space. They know you’ve got other things in your life and aren’t threatened by it. In romantic relationships, it’s crucial to maintain a sense of individuality and freedom. When your partner is your friend, they respect your need for alone time, hobbies, and social interactions outside of the relationship.

This balance ensures that both of you grow as individuals, which only makes the relationship stronger.

Final Thoughts

A relationship built on friendship is like having the best of both worlds. You get the sparks and romance, but also the deep connection and understanding that comes from genuine friendship. You laugh together, cry together, support each other, and grow together. So, if you’re looking for lasting love, make sure to prioritize friendship with your partner. At the end of the day, love is amazing, but friendship is the glue that holds it all together.

And remember, the couples that play together, stay together!