Keep Your Enemies Closer: Why Frenemies Can Be Great

I'm not talking about that friend of yours that constantly undermines you and gives you backhanded compliments that eat away at your self-confidence. That bitch is toxic. I'm talking about the person in your tutorial, sports team or seminar class. The one that you love to hate but, at the end of the day, you both genuinely like each other. You'd never be friends, but you might be best frenemies...which might actually be a great thing for you. Here's why:

1) They Push You

A little competition can be a great thing. You hate seeing them do better than you, so you push yourself to work harder and achieve more. Solely so you can rub it in their face. Which is fair enough, because while they're doing better, they won't let you forget it when they beat you.

2) They Keep You Grounded

You never get too sure of your achievements, because they're constantly working to beat you. They love pointing out when you're wrong and you do the same for them, this honestly makes you realise your mistakes and reminds you that you're not perfect.

3) You Respect Each Other

To a point. There is a line that neither of you will ever cross, but you still give each other a whole lot of crap. However, there have been times that you've backed each other up. You've defended them and they've stuck up for you. You need to keep them around, who else is going to entertain you with debates and witty comebacks? You congratulate them when they beat you, they deserved it...this time.

4) They're A Worthy Adversary

Never has someone provided you with such an enjoyable challenge. They're a worthy competitor. They are smart enough to beat you, but you are also clever enough to beat them. You both love this game of wits you're playing with the other and you'd hate it if someone else tried to join in with your fun.

5) Oh, The Sexual Tension...

There comes a point where you aren't actually sure if you are attracted to them, or they repel you. Your witty banter sometimes gets a bit flirty, but in a more challenging way. Like you're daring the other to give in to your charms, which would mean you'd win. It can drive your other friends insane, they can never tell if you're really flirting or not. Sometimes, neither are you...