When Harry first met Sally, he asserted men and women could not be friends because the “sex part always gets in the way”. But new research suggests roughly two-thirds of couples start out as friends and maintain a platonic relationship for long periods before sparking a romance.

Do relationships that start as friendships work?

Many experts advise that couples should be friends first. Then the relationship is based on personal compatibility, not just sexual chemistry. Social psychologist Grace Cornish avers that romances that begin as friendships are more likely to succeed: As friends first, you like each other first.

How do the best friendships start?

People tend to bond more easily when theyre out of their comfort zone. Take a class in something you love. Youll automatically be surrounded by people with similar interests – and thats the root of friendship. Get a dog and show up every morning at your local dog park.

What are the 4 qualities of a close friend?

Research has found that there are four qualities that are needed to maintain a friendship: Positivity, Supportiveness, Openness, and Interaction.