The number of friends you need to be happy, according to science – CNBC

In his recently released book “Plays Well with Others: The Surprising Science Behind Why Everything You Know About Relationships Is (Mostly) Wrong, author Eric Barker examines the relationships we have with our bosses, romantic partners, and even ourselves.He also explores the precariousness of friendships—the relationships that are usually lower on the figurative totem pole.”Don’t show up for work, and you know your boss will fire you,” he writes. “But what calls for the ending of a friendship is often idiosyncratic. Without institutional obligations, the upkeep friendships require must be very deliberate.”But friendships are scientifically proven to improve almost every relationship and experience in your life, according to research Barker compiled in his book.Without institutional obligations, the upkeep friendships require must be very deliberate.Eric BarkerAuthor of ‘Plays Well With Others’Those who had five or more friends with whom they could talk about their troubles were 60% happier than those with less than five friends, one study he cites says.Here’s how friendships can affect your marriage, your job, and even your health, according to Barker’s research.A deep friendship with your spouse increases marital satisfactionIf you want a happy marriage, creating a solid friendship first is crucial.Studies have shown that being friends with…
Read More