The 7 friends theory: the ideal friendship circle according to TikTok

This strange "Theory" has gained popularity around the world after going viral on TikTok. Let's find out what it is

Are you familiar with the “7 Friends Theory”? The theory, which gained traction on TikTok, suggests that seven is the optimal number of friends a person should have, and that each of them plays a specific role in one’s life. Let us talk about these seven friends and why all of them are essential in an ideal group of friends.

• The childhood friend
  This is the friend you’ve known for a lifetime—the one you’ve been sharing your secrets with since you were young and with whom you share a solid, unbreakable bond. Maybe they were your neighbor, family friend, or classmate, but either way, they’re still here with you.
• The friend who makes you laugh
  Each friend group needs at least one person who can light up your day. You might not be emotionally closest, but the friend brings lightness into your day-to-day life and makes sure you have fun.
• The friend you can count on, no matter the distance
  This is the friend who is constantly present for you despite not speaking every day or living thousands of miles away from you. You could have met at a turning point in your life or experienced something special together, but distance apart, their support never falters.
• The friend you can tell anything (literally anything)
  This is your confidante, the listener who doesn’t criticize, the one who knows you like the back of their hand, and is always ready to support you. They’re the keeper of your darkest secrets and the most understanding ear in your social group.
• The friend who’s like family
  You tell this friend everything—from clothes to emotions. They walk into your home and open the fridge without a second thought. They’re not a friend; they’re family.
• The friend you could never give up on
  This is the friend you adore so much that no matter what happens, you could never imagine living without them.
• The friend who listens to all your relationship problems
  This is the friend who hears everything about your love life—your breakups, relationship dramas, and everything that falls in between. They offer advice, perspective, and a sympathetic ear when you need it the most.

Is the 7 friends theory realistic?

Having a tight circle of friends is definitely fulfilling, but with busy lives and obligations, not everyone has the time to cultivate multiple close friendships.

The 7 Friends Theory might work for some and not others because much depends on personal personality. Some people, especially introverts, prefer a few close friendships, while others thrive on large social networks.

That being said, one of the most beneficial points of this theory is that it reminds us to foster friendships and not assume they will always be there. Regardless of our age, friendship is an important part of our lives, and this idea reminds us to value its importance.

Source: verywellmind