Things You Can Do To Break The Bro Code - CollegeTimes.com

I know, I hear you, I hear what everyone is thinking. "Break the Bro Code? This is madness." The bro code is indeed a hallowed and ancient tradition among men, kind of like a Bar Mitzvah but there's no ceremony and you are just kind of supposed to get it. And if it isn't that it's just a bunch of 'guidelines' based on common sense and etiquette, but it's more fun to think of it as a legitimate codex of male rules that doctrine manliness. That being said there are just a few times in life when breaking it is necessary.

1. Being A Wingman

Some people just really need help when it comes to talking to people they like so this is where you step in to try and break the ice, talk your friend up enough that whoever they are trying to get with is interested enough to make conversation until your bro gets comfortable enough to talk for himself. This can be broken in the situation that you've already started talking to someone that you like, you didn't need a wingman and you can't step away now, this one might be the love of your life!

2. When Counter Dibs Are In Order

Yeah so dibs is definitely the most childish part of the bro code. I know, you can't make a claim on somebody and that's very much accepted within the bro code, it really just means that you give your bro a chance with someone and if he strikes out then dibs are void but what if dibs are called on a work colleague? What about a friend you've had for years? There could also be that person you've been working up the nerve to talk to and you just haven't found the right time yet. Counter dibs are absolutely in order here. What if he makes an ass of himself in front of your work colleague or worse yet doesn't call her later? You have to see that person and are stuck in the same building with them five days a week, nobody wants to have to deal with that and it makes for a poor work environment. Bottom line: everyone loses in that scenario.

3. Cock Blocking

This one can only be broken in the case they they are about to break one of the rules of the bro code or if they are about to make a terrible decision. If it's clear that your friend doesn't see the stubble and adam's apple you are absolutely in the right to go and tell him to take a closer look. If you know that this particular girl is insane and will make things difficult then definitely let him know before hand. If he ignores your warning then let him continue. A true bro doesn't judge.

4. Never Make Fun Of Your Bro For A Hook Up

This one should be broken unless it's really bad. But it has to be really bad. If there is an opportunity for banter always take it. It's the glue that holds a good friendship together.

5. Ex's/Family Are Off Limits

For the most part this shouldn't be broken, getting with your mate's mother is just plain wrong and should always be followed and sister's are in poor taste. The ex that really hurt your friend should also never be approached and should be treated with venom, they hurt your friend and that is not okay. But in the scenario that you actually like one of their other ex's then it should be appreciated. It didn't work out with her and your friend but if you have a spark then that shouldn't be ignored. Same goes with a sister but really only if you are prepared to make a relationship out of it. Could do with checking with your friend first though, as a courtesy.

6. If Your Bro Needs A Lift It Should Be Given

You get a call from your bro that he could really do with a lift, if it's less than a twenty minute walk they're just being lazy. It's Sunday morning and you're in the grips of death, if it isn't an emergency nobody should expect you to move from bed. Same goes for if your car is uninsured/no tax/you're a learner, a bro can't expect a bro to take risks like that for him so he better get walkin'.

7. Never Sleep With A Girl Bro

Everyone knows that one girl who's just one of the guys, always up for a laugh and doesn't have a problem with some of the more tasteless topics in guy conversation. She's around you all the time and you just kind of never noticed any difference between her and one of the other guys. One day you realize, all of a sudden, hey wait she's pretty hot. Usually it's important not to upset the balance of your friend group but in the same sense as friend's family, if you think there's something there it can be allowed, or if you know it's not going to change the dynamic of the group then get straight to it.

8. Never Break The Urinal Code

For those that don't know the Urinal Code, say there are three urinals available, always always take one of the outer ones. Whatever you can do to leave space between each other should be taken. The only scenario this should be broken in is if you absolutely have to go and there's no other way. Breaking the code is only a minor offense in the face of pissing yourself.

9. It Is Not Okay To Watch/Listen To A Chick Flick/Music Unless There Is A Girl Present

Action films or comedies are the only really acceptable group watch and Die Hard is the only logical choice when you are choosing a film at home. Chick Flicks are fine when you are going on a date but don't suggest Love, Actually when you are chilling out with the boys. There are some exceptions though, everyone loves a bit of cheese and cringey songs so throw on Busted/Enrique Iglesias when it's for the sake of a laugh or it's obviously one you can all sing along to. If it's everyone's guilty pleasure then there is no guilt in it.

10. No Dick Punches

Ordinarily no matter how much your friend is acting the prick you never go for a dick shot, unless you are throwing something at them, then it's funny, but they're his family jewels, their pride and joy and that shouldn't be messed with, except for if they are about to drunk dial someone. A well aimed dick punch is a guaranteed way to either bring them to their senses about it or at the very least change the topic of conversation and hope they forget about it long enough that they do come to sense.