Elana has been in a serious relationship with her boyfriend, Andrew, for a year and a half. He makes her laugh. She’s supportive of him. They enjoy each other’s company. Things between them are great, until Elana’s friends call her to hang out. Then Andrew gets upset that Elana spends too much time with her friends.

When we’re in relationships, it’s very easy to slip into cloud 9 and ignore the rest of the world — but eventually we’ll realize that we’ve missed and want to enjoy the company of our old friends. What happens though when your significant other asks you to choose between him or them?

Undeniably, this is a tough decision. Is it possible to enjoy the company of everyone without offending anyone? Yes.

LET BOYFRIENDS BE FRIENDS
It’s easy to avoid meeting his friends and him meeting your friends when you’re in a relationship with each other. But if you want a supportive and welcoming relationship (with your boyfriend and friends), you’ll want both parties to feel at ease when they are together. Here’s what you can do:

• Meet his friends.
• Hang out with him and his friends.
• Become their friends.
• Ask that your boyfriend do the same with yours.
• Encourage each other to spend time with your respective group of friends.

Granted, there will be occasions when you want to exclusively hang out with one or the other, but there’s no need to always have to awkwardly choose between your boyfriend and your friends. In a serious and healthy relationship, your significant other should be able to put forth the effort to respect and become friends with your buddies. Bear in mind, however, that this applies to you as well… so be smart and avoid this ultimatum.

Happy loving!