Your sibling is your very own personal punching bag. Nobody else is allowed to touch “it”.

When your mother showers you some affection, you can’t help but gleefully stick it to your sibling.
“Mom loves me more! ‘And oh guess what, you’re adopted! We found you in a garbage can in a dark alley and decided to take you home.”

You might have just nearly gouged sibling's eye out or nearly ripped out their arm (or their hair perhaps) but hell hath no fury like a mom scorned.
“I’ll let you borrow all my dresses for one whole month if you’d like. But please, no matter what you do, do not tell Mom. She can’t find out I just blinded you!”

It's the one time you and your siblings are going to put aside your differences and come together for the greater good.

With great power comes great responsibility--the responsibility to make your sibling slave. You know you can't let a golden opportunity like that simply pass by, now can you?

Sharing is caring. Or is it?
“Here, you can have the teeniest sliver.”

When your sister thinks that deep down (really, really, deep down, somewhere in the deep abyss of your cold and tortured soul) that you love her, but only you know what your true feelings are.

The relationship between siblings isn’t like any other. It’s one full of hate, as well as love—it’s an inexplicable one. Sometimes you wish your sibling was never born, but then try to imagine what life would be without them. You can’t, can you?

Image source: Pinterest

• Shape matters
• All about the money
• Mix it up
• 4 C’s
• The size of the finger

Shape matters

Does your significant other have a preferred shape that they love? A heart, perhaps a square or a circle? Make sure you keep note of things like shapes, because hey, little things matter and how! And wouldn’t an engagement ring in the shape of their choice be just perfect?

All about the money

Time to get a little realistic! We know that this is a huge deal for you, but streamlining your expenses as to how much you can really spend on a particular aspect of a wedding is equally important. So, choose brands that fall under your budget without compromising on the quality. Seems like an impossible task, but trust us, it’s not! Research well when it comes to jewellers and hunt as much as you can. Don’t be lazy and pick up the engagement ring from the first store you see!

Mix it up

Instead of going for a full gold, or even a full diamond ring, maybe mix things up a little? If you have the budget you can go for a sapphire stunner or an emerald or ruby as your main stone too! You can also go for contrasting hues or a gorgeous platinum + diamond combination! Who would want a boring engagement ring anyway?

4 C’s

Keep in mind the four most important C’s while shopping for the engagement ring : Colour, cut, clarity, carat. These are to never be compromised when you’re buying something that’s precious and is going to be with you forever. Make sure you’re reading up on hallmarking that is regulated by bureau of Indian standards or taking your jewellery to SGL (Solitaire Gemological Laboratory) or IGI (International Gemological Institute) to get the diamonds verified. It’s always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to jewellery.

The size of the finger

This is the most important part, but you can easily forget it! If you’re shopping for your significant other especially, you need to know the size of their ring finger, so do all it takes to slyly find out the size(if you’re going to propose), you don’t want the engagement ring falling off their finger, do you?

Engagement rings are special and you must do everything it takes to ensure that the first big part of your wedding, your engagement ring, should never be one of the wedding shopping mistakes you tend to make.

• 1. Is this for real or am I being punked?
• 2. So this means I wont be single anymore?
• 3. What do I call him once we’re married?
• 4. Do I have a weird smile?
• 5. What if I have sweaty armpits?
• 6. Will I fit into my outfits? Have I gained weight?
• 7. How do I pee in that outfit?
• 8. Should I cry?

1. Is this for real or am I being punked?

This usually happens within the first few days after the proposal. You’re so overwhelmed that it all seems unreal. The funny part is this might actually drive you crazy enough to pinch yourself real hard and double check if it’s all really happening.

2. So this means I wont be single anymore?

It’s strange why this question even comes up, but it’s also amazing how common this thought is. Well, to answer your question… yes, that’s how marriage usually works!

3. What do I call him once we’re married?

For some reason, marriage encourages the need for a new pet name for your husband. Your usual thoughts will be “Should I call him hubby, baby, or darling?” It sounds really funny now, but if it’s important to you…go for it!

4. Do I have a weird smile?

Another strange pre-wedding concern brides tend to have is “What if I smile weirdly especially in pictures! Those’ll haunt me for the rest of my life! But how can I not smile at my own wedding? Maybe I should practice some more in front of the mirror!”

5. What if I have sweaty armpits?

The fear of sweaty armpits will forever haunt women dressed in heavy traditional attire. As for you little bride, we don’t even want to imagine the mayhem in your head. Although this is a legit concern…you have to acknowledge the humour here!

6. Will I fit into my outfits? Have I gained weight?

Fitting into your wedding outfits is probably the biggest stress in a bride’s life. From the moment you pick out your wedding sari / lehenga, till the time you actually wear it on D-day, you’ll be wondering “I really hope that blouse fits me properly. What if that lehenga is too long…I hope I don’t trip. What if it tears when I sit. What if I’ve gained weight? OMG have I gained weight?”

7. How do I pee in that outfit?

Every bride’s biggest nightmare on her big day…”who carries the weight of that dress when nature calls?” It hilarious, yet a very real concern. Well, you better call your bestie and make sure she’s there on time to do the needful!

8. Should I cry?

This one’s our favourite! We Indian girls have grown up watching Bollywood movies where every wedding is followed by a sad and dramatic bidai ceremony where the bride’s emotions suddenly spin a full 360 degrees and she instantly goes from happy and cheery to a bawling fountain of tears. So, it’s only natural that the question would cross your mind.

See…you’re not in this alone. There are other brides out there with these bizarre thoughts too! So stop panicking already! Take a deep breath and put those crazy thoughts aside…everything’s going to be just fine!

Image credits: Pinterest, Giphy

• 1. Plan fun activities together—something you’ve never done
• 3. Choose a destination that both of you would like to visit.
• 5. Try to squeeze in some alone time as well…it’s important!
• 7. This is the ultimate test of your comfort level with each other…so be prepared.

1. Plan fun activities together—something you’ve never done

No matter how good a conversationalist either of you is, there’s always a risk of running out of things to talk about. So play it safe by having a rough itinerary. We’re not saying plan things by the hour, if anything refrain from being the control freak with a checklist. But do plan some fun activities together to make the trip memorable. It could be a romantic walk through the city, a nice leisurely swim, some adventure sports if you're both adrenaline junkies, or maybe just stay in, call for room service and watch a movie together. The idea is to take back beautiful memories…. doesn’t really matter how or where you do it.

2. Make sure the trip is not too short but not too long either

If it’s your first trip together, you need to make sure you have enough days to get to know each other well…or what’s the point. However make sure it’s not too long a trip either because you run the risk of running out of things to do and talk about. And you simply do not want this trip to become a boring drag. Three to five days is usually an ideal vacay for first timers.

3. Choose a destination that both of you would like to visit.

If the two of you have contradictory interests, it’s possible that there might be some friction while deciding where to go. But remember, every relationship requires some amount of compromise, so you need to find middle ground and pick a place you’d both be happy to visit. Also, try to pick a place that neither of you have been to before, so it can something you both explore together.

4. Make spontaneous romantic gestures

Now, we’re not asking you to bend the knee and put a ring on it. That’ll just send your partner running for the hills. We’re taking about cute little gestures like romantic dinners, buying each other little presents or maybe just a picnic on the beach with some wine and pizza. These little memories will definitely bring the two of you closer and take your budding relationship a long way.

5. Try to squeeze in some alone time as well…it’s important!

We’re not saying spend an entire day apart (especially if it’s just a short getaway); that would just kill the whole purpose of the trip. All we’re saying is that after spending a fair bit of time together, both you and your partner might need some alone time to rejuvenate and gather your thoughts. So take a couple of hours…go for a nice morning stroll while your partner sleeps in, or read a book by the pool while he hits the gym. We promise you’ll come back to each other much happier and with a new found energy to spend the rest of the day together.

6. Watch out for those annoying habits — both his and yours!

While a holiday with your S.O. is going to bring you both closer emotionally, it’s also going to reveal those little bad habits you've kept hidden away so far. When you’re living with someone, you no longer get to behave like you own the place…you need to be considerate about your partner’s comfort too. A classic example of this would be tidiness. You simply can't throw your stuff around and leave the room a mess. You need to be organised! Also, remember to travel light…only pack what you need. Don’t create a situation where your partner has to end up carrying half your luggage. Although, he may be courteous enough to offer, you need to remember that he’s your boyfriend…not your BELLBOY!

7. This is the ultimate test of your comfort level with each other…so be prepared.

Living together means, letting your partner see the real you — the way you eat, sleep, breathe…everything! If you snore at night he’ll know, if you snort while you laugh, he’ll notice. The biggest challenge for girls is sharing the bathroom…it can be weird to pee or do your business knowing your boyfriend’s sitting out there and can probably hear you. But this is what the real test is…you’re both grown adults and you need to be comfortable enough with each other to get past these little insecurities.

8. Stay away from your phone

This is the cardinal rule of taking a trip with your SO. The whole idea of this trip is to get away from the rest of the world and spend some time together. While it might be tempting to check social media every now and then, try to refrain from it. And if you’re simply too much of a cell phone addict, try to involve your partner while scrolling down your Insta feed…you might just stumble upon an interesting conversation starter.

So go ahead and enjoy your time with your SO. Remember to keep both your mind and your eyes open so that while you explore this new experience, you also don't miss out on those red flags, if any.

Image Credits: Pinterest, Giphy

• 1. Straightforward and practical with zero tolerance for nonsense
• 3. Ambitious and hardworking go-getters
• 5. Family always comes first
• 7. Dire need for personal space

1. Straightforward and practical with zero tolerance for nonsense

Virgos are a practical and straightforward with zero tolerance for faff or unnecessary flamboyance. When it comes to relationships, they hate mind games and withholding of emotions. It drives them nuts to make assumptions and would much rather have you be straight with them. While pursuing a Virgo, always remember communication is key. Make sure they know you have feelings for them before they walk away deeming the whole thing to be a waste of time and effort.

2. Loyal to a fault but are not to be taken for granted

Virgos are fiercely loyal and tend to put in their all once they've made a commitment. However, they also don't appreciate being used or taken for granted and will promptly hand you a one way ticket out of their lives if they find a lack of reciprocation. They simply don't believe in bad investments, relationship or otherwise.

3. Ambitious and hardworking go-getters

Virgos are down-to-earth, driven and ambitious individuals with a strong a work ethic. They work hard at everything - their careers, their relationships and even their hobbies. They believe everything is a competition and they have to be the best, or why do it at all! When in a relationship with a Virgo, you need to try and match their enthusiasm…at least in the things that matter. When it comes to their partners, Virgos are rarely attracted to bimbos and braggarts. They look for someone who is driven, intelligent, mature and can hold their own. The best way to a Virgo’s heart is to earn their respect.

4. Sentimental but emotionally cautious and reserved

Virgos are sensitive and sentimental creatures but they try not to make it very evident. In fact, they’re particularly good at keeping their feelings bottled up and prefer to hide their emotions. They don’t open up or get attached too soon and prefer to tread slowly and carefully. Their naturally cautious persona compels them to first test the waters before diving right in. It usually takes them a while to fall in love, but once they do, they’re in it for the long haul. When in a relationship, make sure to be patient with your Virgo. Be affectionate but don't smother them with warm and fuzzies too soon or you might just scare them away.

5. Family always comes first

As far as family oriented zodiacs go, Virgos are right up there. They treasure spending quality time at home and no matter the circumstances, family is always at the top of their priority list. Moreover, Virgos prefer quieter ambiences to loud, crowded places which makes family outings much more appealing to them than a wild night out with friends. If you’re in a relationship with a Virgo, this quality makes them great potential partners. So if things are serious, your Virgo is going to shower you with a lot of time and attention.

6. Harsh critics with utmost attention to detail

Virgos are perfectionists and have a hawk’s eye when it comes to spotting the slightest of errors. Because they notice every little detail, they often come across as trying to be a know-it-all. And not only do they spot the errors, they’re also extremely vocal and intensely critical while pointing them out. Virgos are also the most self-critical of the zodiac. They take great pride in their diverse knowledge of things and tend to be very hard on themselves if they fail at a task. When in a relationship, it can be a bit of a challenge to put up with their ridiculously high standards. As a partner, this is where you need to go the extra mile to support your Virgo when they’re being self-critical and remind them that they're only human too!

7. Dire need for personal space

Despite the occasional socialising, there’s a bit of a loner in every Virgo. They are fiercely independent and treasure some alone time every now and then. When in a relationship, as a partner, it’s imperative for you to understand that Virgos need to maintain an equal balance between their time with you, their family, their friends and their time alone. This can often lead to disastrous time management issues… but it’s a burden you simply have to bear. At the same time, make sure to not be too clingy or needy because that'll only push them further away. Just be patient and give your Virgo the freedom to do their own thing. We promise they’ll appreciate it!

8. Knowledgable and fierce debaters

Virgos are usually highly intelligent and knowledgable and admire this quality in their partners as well. However, when questioned or challenged, they can suddenly become quite fiery. Even in a relationship, Virgos always think things through and in case of a debate or argument, they’re rarely on the losing end. They usually don't make a case unless they’re sure so if you’re going to go up against em’ make sure to have your facts right because your Virgo is going to come at you with all guns blazing.

Cherish your Virgo partner and they’ll cherish you right back. They rarely believe in second chances so don't ever give them a reason to mistrust you. Keep all of the above in mind and it should be smooth sailing for you and your Virgo.

Image Credits: Pinterest, Giphy

• 1. Taylor Swift and Selena Gomez
• 2. Kendall Jenner and Gigi Hadid
• 3. Tobey Maguire and Leonardo DiCaprio
• 4. Courtney Cox and Jennifer Aniston
• 5. Brad Pitt and George Clooney
• 6. Drew Barrymore and Cameron Diaz
• 7. Ryan Reynolds and Sandra Bullock
• 8. Maisie Williams and Sophie Turner

1. Taylor Swift and Selena Gomez

The sisterhood between Taylor Swift and Selena Gomez is hardly a secret. The two singers have been BFFs since their early days in the spotlight way back in 2008 and have been practically inseparable ever since. They’ve shared a lot of beautiful moments both in and out of the public’s eye. Not only are they spotted at award ceremonies together, they also go out for shopping and dinners together. They’ve even made guest appearances at each other’s concerts. Sometimes they also have girls nights where they just stay home, cook and binge together. They've always been supportive of each other in both their personal and professional lives and are always available for the other when things go south or when either one needs friendly advice. So basically, they’re a BFF power couple…and they're famous!

2. Kendall Jenner and Gigi Hadid

Models that walk together, stick together. Yes, we know that’s not a thing, but in case of these two ladies it might as well be. BFFs Kendall Jenner and Gigi Hadid are known to turn public appearances into their own personal runway with their incredible sense of style. Even though the two haven't known each other long, they've become very close and have often gone on record taking about how the other is a helpful friend and a lovely person. In this brief time, Kendall and Gigi have walked multiple runways and have also taken multiple trips across the world together. The two are practically attached at the hip and from the looks of it, they’re going to be sticking together for a long, long time.

3. Tobey Maguire and Leonardo DiCaprio

Speaking of age-old friends, how can we forget Leo and our friendly neighbourhood Spiderman. The two stars first met during their early years in the industry while auditioning for acting roles and have managed to remain best friends ever since. Leo and Tobey have been catching basketball games together for years and they finally even got a chance to work in a film together in 2013's ‘The Great Gatsby’. In an interview for the film, Tobey talked about his experience working with Leonardo and said, "The fact that I was forced to see one of my best friends every day was fantastic.” The ladies may be much more vocal about their besties, while men tend to keep it on the down low. But we’ve been observing and we don't miss a thing!

4. Courtney Cox and Jennifer Aniston

The show may have ended years ago, but that doesn't mean their friendship did. ‘F.R.I.E.N.D.S.’ costars Courtney Cox and Jennifer Aniston first met on the sets of the show and over a span of 10 seasons, they discovered friendship in its truest form. Even today, the two remain as close as ever. Did you know that Jenny is even godmother to Courtney’s daughter Coco? That practically makes them family, doesn't it!

5. Brad Pitt and George Clooney

Remember this dynamic duo from the Ocean’s movies? We’ll they're great pals in real life too! Yes, they did have a falling out for the longest time because of Angie and her strong opinions about George being a bad influence on Brad (at least that’s what the rumours say). Not to mention her dislike towards George’s wife, Amal. But now that Brangelina is history, the bromance between George and Brad has rekindled. Despite their falling out in the past, George was one of the few people that supported Brad through his heart-breaking divorce and kept him from going off the rails. Sources reveal that Brad also flew down all the way to George’s country home in Oxfordshire when his wife gave birth to twin babies. Brad flew by helicopter and landed in the field next door because he couldn't wait to congratulate his bestie and meet babies Ella and Alexander.

6. Drew Barrymore and Cameron Diaz

Drew and Cameron became friends as teenagers in Los Angels and their bond has only grown stronger over the years. Working together in ‘Charlie’s Angels’ brought them even closer and the two have been almost inseparable ever since. They were both present at each other’s weddings and often spotted hanging out with their partners. Well, they did say the “Angels” would always stick together, right?

7. Ryan Reynolds and Sandra Bullock

We’ve seen these two create magic on screen in 2009’s “The Proposal”, but did you know they’re great friends in real life too? The two were introduced by mutual friends on the sets of the movie and instantly hit it off. They've been close friends ever since and have often come to each other’s aid in times of need. They even supported each other through their divorces, his from Scarlett Johansson and hers from Jesse James. Now isn't that what being besties is all about!

8. Maisie Williams and Sophie Turner

Things may not be going so well for sisters Sansa and Arya Stark in ‘The Game of Thrones,’ but off screen Maisie Williams and Sophie Turner aka Mophie are the best of friends. The two were just young teenagers when they met on the sets of the show, and over the years, they've developed a strong bond. Unlike their love-hate relationship on the show, off-screen these two Brit girls are all about the love. They’ve often been spotted at a lot of public events together. Rumour has they even have sleepovers sometimes…now ain’t that cute!

Looks like these celebs could really teach us a thing or two about #friendshipgoals.

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• 1. Serena and Blair – Gossip Girl
• 2. Emma and Liv – Bride wars
• 3. Harry, Hermione and Ron – Harry Potter
• 4. Monte Carlo – Grace, Meg and Emma
• 5. Carrie, Samantha, Charlotte and Miranda – Sex and The City
• 6. Meredith and Cristina – Grey’s Anatomy
• 7. Cher and Donnie – Clueless
• 8. Monica and Rachel – Friends

1. Serena and Blair – Gossip Girl

Serena and Blair are #BFFgoals personified. From extravagant shopping dates and fashion fiascos to unnerving family drama to dealing with a broken heart, these girls always stuck together through think and thin. Despite their frequent ego clashes, petty vendettas and superficial distractions, they shared an unparalleled love that always brought them back together.

2. Emma and Liv – Bride wars

Can you even fathom the horror of your BFF becoming your sworn enemy? Well, weddings can do that to you…especially if they’re at the plaza. Emma and Liv, two inseparable besties do horrible things to sabotage each other’s weddings, but through every single step of the way, we feel their hearts breaking every time they cross a line. These two are classic examples of how BFFs can endure anything together and goes to show that true friendship is only as strong as their keepers’ love for each other.

3. Harry, Hermione and Ron – Harry Potter

Who can ever forget this epic trio… three little teenagers who met on a train and went on to become legends. Together they not only took us on a magical journey of the wizarding world, but also gave us a taste of friendship in its purest form. We can’t think of a better example to describe the words “friends like family.”

4. Monte Carlo – Grace, Meg and Emma

Sometimes you need a little nudge to realize who your true friends are. Similar was the story of Grace, Meg and Emma. Forced to go on a trip together, their relationship endures a number of hiccups on the way before they eventually start to appreciate each other for who they really are. This is a story of fairytale moments and self-discovery but more importantly it’s a tale of discovering the strongest friendships in the most unexpected places. Just watching these three have each other’s back right till the end made us go a little week in the knees.

5. Carrie, Samantha, Charlotte and Miranda – Sex and The City

Masked by the blinding glory of Louboutins and Manolo Blahniks lies a story of four inseparable best friends who always find comfort in each other’s company—be it for a drunken girls night, practical advice, or just to chase away the loneliness we sometimes feel. We can’t seem to get over something Charlotte pointed out, “Maybe we could be each other’s soul mates. Then, we could let men be just these great, nice guys to have fun with.” SATC looked at female friendships in a whole new light…and we bet you’re thinking it too!

6. Meredith and Cristina – Grey’s Anatomy

No matter how strong you are, at some point everyone needs a BFF (‘Person’ as Meredith prefers to call it). Meredith has quite a strange personality; she isn’t everyone’s cup of tea. But with Christina, she found her comfort zone. Emotionally, they’re both women of few words and let their actions speak for them. They read each other’s minds, complete each other’s sentences and are there for each other even before asking. This somewhat twisted but deeply emotional bond they share really gave us the jitters.

7. Cher and Donnie – Clueless

Cher and Donnie are classic examples of best friends all the way from 1995…and guess what they’re still celebrated…so there’s got to be a reason right? These two understood that being besties means being there for each other and sharing everything – an epic sense of fashion, the drama and even chipotle! And they nailed the most cardinal rule of friendship… “The enemy of my bestie is my sworn enemy!”

8. Monica and Rachel – Friends

Some shows are just timeless and Friends lies right on top of that list. What Monica and Rachel shared is probably what every girl looks for in her bestie. Theirs was a friendship of unconditional love, honesty and no room for judgment. From being roommates to best friends to maid of honour to Emma’s godmother, their journey made our hearts melt every single step of the way. And let’s not forget how Emma got her name in the first place (seriously…if your bestie can do that for you, she’s a keeper)!

Your besties are basically your partners in crime…and believe it or not, we all need at least one! There’s a funny saying about friendship, “Friends come and go like the waves of the ocean, but the true ones stay… like an octopus on your face!” So make sure to hold on to your octopus real tight and don’t ever let go.

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• Polaroid Camera
• Spa vouchers
• Jewellery
• Personalized stationery
• Gourmet indulgence basket

Polaroid Camera

Polaroid cameras make an excellent gifting option for outgoing, fun-loving and adrenaline driven star signs like Sagittarius, Gemini and Aquarius. People belonging to these zodiac signs usually love to travel and document their travels. So this is pretty much the perfect gift for them!

Scented candles

Pisceans, Librans and Cancerians share a common love for home décor. They enjoy a somewhat luxurious lifestyle and place great emphasis on aesthetics. If your bbfs belong to any of these star signs, scented candles will make the perfect gifting option.

Spa vouchers

This gift will win you brownie points with almost every zodiac. However, it’s ideal for the beauty conscious Pisceans, Librans, Capricorns and Taureans as it appeals to their need for comfort, pampering and personal grooming.  You can sweeten the deal further by booking a couples massage so you and your bestie can enjoy this day of relaxation together and bond over some green tea.

Jewellery

Women love jewellery…period! However, zodiacs like Aries, Leos and Scorpios are known to be flamboyant attention seekers who love making a bold statement with their attire. So if your bff happens to belong to these star signs, just get her those danglers she’s been eyeing.

Friendship bookmarks

This is the perfect gift for that bookworm bff who appreciates a bit of a personal touch. The best part is, this gift works for both girl and guy best friends. Friendship bookmarks are an ideal choice for the slightly sentimental Cancerian, Sagittarian and Virgo bffs.

Personalized stationery

Zodiacs like Virgos, Capricorns and Scorpios tend to be particularly organized in both their personal and professional lives.  They are practical, independent individuals and appreciate gifts that are thoughtful and compliment their personality. This gift will make you a total keeper in their books (pun intended)!

Lingerie

Who says your boyfriend is the only one who can buy you lingerie? The fact is, your bestie understands your preference and size way better and is much more likely to surprise you with some jaw dropping lingerie that you’ll never want to take off. While this may be a slightly risky gift for some, it’s a total winner for bold and fiery zodiacs like Aries and Leos.

Gourmet indulgence basket

This one’s a winner with every zodiac sign. Make a customized basket of your bff’s favourite chocolates, cookies, cheeses and maybe add some wine too. This would definitely be a hot seller for zodiacs like Aries, Taurus, Leos and Scorpios who thrive on indulgence. On the other hand, zodiacs like Sagittarians, Capricorns, Virgos and Geminis tend to have more refined tastes so maybe switch out the chocolates for some gourmet coffee and teas to appeal to this lot.

• Listen…and then some
• Get up and workout together
• Plan a weekend getaway
• Sign up for a class together

Listen…and then some

It doesn’t matter if it’s the same rant the tenth time over, just hear her out. Your friend may be experiencing a wide array of emotions ranging from anger to sadness and perhaps this is just her way of dealing with them. Sometimes, all we need is a sympathetic ear. So, go on and let her vent out all that steam, keeping your judgement aside.

Be the voice of reason

While no one wants to hear ‘I told you so’ just after a break up, you can be more objective about it. You can help her see the light of the day and explain that it’s better to move on. As a good friend, it’s also your duty to keep a check on impulsive behaviours. So, make sure your friend isn’t doing something silly like landing up at her ex’s place in the middle of the night or hooking up with someone random.

Get up and workout together

Sign a gym buddy pact with your friend. A workout will release those feel-good endorphins that’ll kick the blues away. A change in routine will also help her take her mind off the breakup. As exercise becomes a part of your daily schedule, you’ll both feel fitter, more confident and ready to conquer the world.

Offer a helping hand

Heartbreak can be all-consuming. So don’t be surprised if your friend has lost track of basic tasks like replenishing groceries or paying bills on times. Wherever you can, offer a helping hand. Now’s the time to try out those recipes from all those food videos you spent so much time watching! Cook up a meal; and better yet, call her over and make a plan out of it!

Plan a weekend getaway

There’s nothing like travelling to give you a fresh perspective in life. So, if you were thinking of that girls weekend getaway, now’s the time to act on it. Remember, the anticipation is half the fun, so get busy planning all the details. In fact, gather some of your closest girlfriends, because remember, the more the merrier!

Schedule some R & R

Since you’re an awesome friend, surprise your bestie with a spa appointment. A spa session will certainly calm those frayed nerves. Research has shown that massage stimulates the production of dopamine and serotonin aka the happy hormones and inhibits the production of cortisol, the stress hormone. We’re sure your friend will come out feeling as good as new!

Sign up for a class together

Sometimes, all you need to do is give grief a creative outlet and you’d be surprised with the results. You can use this as an opportunity to learn something, yourself. Consider options like painting, photography or dancing and get those creative juices flowing!

Keep a tab

A breakup is a vulnerable time and it’s easy to fall prey to depression. In many cases, it may seem that alcohol or substance abuse is the only release. Look for signs like sudden changes in weight, bloodshot eyes and obvious changes in personality. Keep regular tabs on your friend to make sure she’s not falling in a trap. Just being there is enough; it’s all the support your friend needs.

• 1. Loyal to a fault
• 3. Born Romantics
• 5. Ambitious and Competitive
• 7. Attention Seekers
• 9. Strong Debaters

1. Loyal to a fault

Leos are basically as loyal as they come. Once committed, they will stick by your side no matter what. They make for extremely encouraging and supportive partners. While dating Leos, make sure to reciprocate the love and enjoy romantic attention they shower you with.

2. Confident and Straightforward

Leos are strong, confident personalities. If they like you, they wont shy away from their feelings and can sometimes come off a bit too strong. They don’t believe in beating around the bush and can be quite blunt about their opinions. So if you’re dating a Leo, be prepared for honesty at its brutal best.

3. Born Romantics

Leos love being in love, and when they are, they are not afraid to show it. Known for their pride, flamboyance and chivalry, Leos will go out of their way to show you a good time. All they want in return is tons of appreciation and attention. You should know that of the best Leo relationships are built on the foundation of flattery.

4. Suckers for Drama

Leos are a hubristic lot and rarely forego any opportunity to publicly display their “awesomeness”! This makes them real suckers for drama. They love loud public encounters as it gives them the attention they crave. So when dating a Leo, feel free to amp up the drama. We guarantee they’ll secretly enjoy it!

5. Ambitious and Competitive

Leos are known to be very ambitious and have a strong desire for power and authority. In relationships, they look for partners who support and encourage their dreams and don’t hold them back. When in pursuit of a goal, Leos can be quite relentless and aggressive. So, if you love your Leo, learn to give ‘em some space.

6. Natural Leaders

Leos are independent thinkers and make great leaders. This quality reflects in their relationships as well. They always like to take the lead and hate being told what to do. So if you’re dating a Leo, be prepared to be a submissive follower while he/she calls the shots (at least most of the time)

7. Attention Seekers

Leos can be huge attention seekers and have a constant need for appreciation. They are self-proclaimed superstars and love to be in the limelight. They believe that they deserve nothing but the best and can be quite egoistic. When in a relationship, make sure to really pamper your Leo and be careful not to offend him/her.

8. Insecure and Possessive

Leo’s tend to be very emotionally insecure in relationships. They live in constant fear of being taken advantage of or being cheated on. They can also be very jealous and possessive and demand constant attention and priority over other things in your life. They need constant reassurance of their feelings being reciprocated by their partners. And BEWARE…. don’t ever try to make them jealous; it’s a like asking for trouble!

9. Strong Debaters

Leos tend to develop a real fire in their belly when it comes to having their way. They can be extremely stubborn and dominating. They love a good argument and tend to be really good at it too. So if you and your Leo partner ever get into a fight, make sure you’re mentally prepared to be on the losing end of a long, exhaustive debate.

10. Extremely Temperamental

Leos are known for their fiery temperament; and believe us, you do not want to be on the receiving end of it! Arguments in a relationship are unavoidable, but when your partner is a Leo, you need to be extra cautious to avoid that explosive temper. If things get out of hand, the best solution is to back down and give your partner some time to cool off.

Leos can be quite a handful and if you’re dating one, boy do you have your work cut out for you. But on the other hand, life with a Leo can also be exhilarating and full of surprises; and who doesn’t like that. Every rollercoaster has some scary twists and turns, but that’s what makes it so much fun. So now that we’ve prepared you well for what’s to come, try to focus on the positives and enjoy the ride!

• When he looks at you like you are the ‘one’
• A boyfriend that doesn’t shy away from PDA!
• When he is your personal photographer and clicks perfect pictures every time!
• Couple hair game too strong!
• Stronger together

When he looks at you like you are the ‘one’

Find a boyfriend who looks at you like Nick Jonas looks at Priyanka Chopra. And sings like him too...

A boyfriend that doesn’t shy away from PDA!

Ranveer Singh’s comments on Deepika Padukone’s Instagram posts give us major ‘Pyaar kiya toh darna kya’goals!

When he is your personal photographer and clicks perfect pictures every time!

Ranbir Kapoor’s photos of Alia Bhatt are quite dreamy, don’t you think? (Sings ‘Tu kheech meri photo piya’ in the background…)

Couple hair game too strong!

Karan Kundra & Anusha Dandekar giving us some major goals here. When he tries the same hair colour as yours, it’s a match made in the salon!

Stronger together

Tiger Shroff and Disha Patani’s fitness game proves love blossoms in the gym!

• They’re effortless
• They’re full of variety
• Safety issues
• You may be tricked

They’re effortless

It is very easy to connect with new people. All you need to do is set up an account, log in and you are on! You no longer need to go around to restaurants or events in the hopes of meeting someone you like—and they‘re now just a click away.

They’re filtered

You get to choose exactly the kind of person that you want. Whether you want to have a casual fling, or are looking for someone to grow old with, you can be very straightforward and upfront about what you want. If the other person is interested, then you’ve got yourself a date—else you can just swipe to move ahead!

They’re full of variety

You can meet numerous people across the city, country and even the world. It is a friendly platform where you can interact with people that you otherwise may not have had the chance of knowing. Thanks to GPS, you can choose to find people within your locality, or even expand your search to interact with people across the world.

It can be comfortable

Not everyone is a people’s person. Some people may not find it easy to talk to people whom they’ve just met. An online app removes the initial face-to-face interaction from the way. This makes communication easier, as you do not have to be in the actual presence of the person—there is no room for the nervousness that you would otherwise be experiencing

Cons

Safety issues

You never know whether the person you are chatting with is the same as the person on the profile. Many people create fake profiles for reasons known only to them, so it can be quite difficult to know whether you should trust a person or not on an online app.

Cyber bullying

On an online app, people may send unwanted messages, or even ridicule your looks, personality, profession, and more. Some people may use your posts or photographs in places where you may not want them. Your accounts can be replicated, and your private information can be exposed for purposes you may not like.

You may be tricked

Some people may be genuinely looking for real relationships, while others may just use online dating as a way to pass their time. Because dates are so easily available, you could end up being taken for a ride, or ghosted; which is why one must be very cautious while using a dating app.

• Never pretend to like things you actually hate
• Don’t stop hanging out with your friends
• Don’t change your appearance

Never pretend to like things you actually hate

It’s very important to always stay true to yourself—even when you’re in a new relationship. Liking something you really hate, just because your partner’s a fan of it, doesn’t really help either you or them. So, whether it’s a rap song, an exotic cuisine, or an adventure sport, don’t claim to like it just because you want things to work out with your partner, or make them think of you a certain way.

Don’t be afraid to ask for your space

If you need a little me-time, ask for it! You shouldn’t feel obligated to always hang out with your partner, or include them in your hobbies. If you feel like spending the day binge watching your favourite TV show alone in your PJs, or reading a good book, go for it! After all, everybody needs a little time to themselves even if they’re in a relationship.

Don’t stop hanging out with your friends

Now this one’s really important. It’s great having a new companion, but it’s very important to remember to keep your old ones close as well. It can be quite tempting to spend every waking minute with your new partner, but be sure to make time for your friends too. After all, they’re the ones who are always there for you, through thick and thin.

Never be afraid to speak your mind

Have an opinion about something? Dying to say something that’s been on your mind for days? Let your partner know. Shed light on what you feel about a certain situation, event, or thought. Talk about how you feel—you’ve got nothing to lose. There’s no point keeping your partner in the dark about things. The more they get to know you at the start of the relationship, the better.

Don’t change your appearance

If you’ve got curls for days that you absolutely adore, but your partner has mentioned a preference for pin straight hair, don’t feel the need to change the way your hair looks. The same goes for the way you dress, or how you like to do your makeup. At the end of the day, it’s important to keep yourself happy—there’s no point changing, and being unhappy, only to impress somebody. Someone who’s truly meant for you, will like you just the way you are.

• 1. Go to an amusement park
• 3. Go stargazing
• 5. Go trekking

1. Go to an amusement park

Yes, your heart beats for the one you love, but make it beat even harder with a rush of adrenaline, by spending this Valentine’s Day enjoying the twists and turns of roller coasters! Set the inner children in you and your S.O. free at an amusement park, and have the time of your life!

2. Visit a spa

Valentine’s Day isn’t just about big, romantic gestures, really. A great way to celebrate the day can also include just doing things together. So, why not relax, and be pampered at the spa together? A couple’s massage is a wonderful treat both of you would enjoy, and there’s no better day for this than V-day.

3. Go stargazing

There’s nothing prettier than a starry sky, is there? And this V-day, you could enjoy the beauty of a luminous star-studded night with your S.O. If you live in the city, and don’t come across starry nights too often, escape to the outskirts, pitch a tent and relish the beautiful night sky from there. If you can view it from your home, even better!

4. Karaoke together

It doesn’t matter if you can’t sing in key—just shout out the words of your favourite song to your S.O. to show them how you feel, and they can do the same for you! After all, songs are the best love letters, aren’t they? Besides being a convenient way of showing your affection, karaoke can be tons of fun, and is a foolproof way of enjoying a couple of laughs together.

5. Go trekking

Get some fresh air together, and enjoy what nature has in store for you. Trekking is wonderful way of spending time with each other, experiencing the outdoors, and also makes room for great conversation. And if you’re the outdoorsy type, you’ll surely love doing this!

6. A-Z food adventure

You’re probably wondering what this is. Well, this year, you and your S.O. can set out on an adventure and get a taste of a food that starts with each letter of the alphabet. This doesn’t require you to go to just one restaurant and order different dishes—you could hit food trucks, and even street food stalls to complete the list.

• What is micro-cheating?
• So, are you micro-cheating on your S.O?

What is micro-cheating?

Imagine yourself in a steady relationship with your partner, and one fine day, you get a DM from a guy you thought was cute. You respond to their DM and the two of you begin to talk regularly. In your head, this is extremely normal/ casual and yet, you keep it from your partner thinking that it’s rather inconsequential. You’re probably enjoying the harmless flirting and don’t intend to break up with your partner ‘coz you’ve normalised the flirting. It isn’t a big deal for you. That’s exactly what micro-cheating is!

Micro-cheating is quite confusing a term as people all over the internet have their own versions and definitions of what they think it is and should be. Melanie described micro-cheating as the process of “secretly connecting” with another person on social media or “sharing private jokes” with someone who is not your S.O. while hiding all of these from them. If you feel the need to hide something from your partner, you’re micro-cheating.

So, are you micro-cheating on your S.O?

If you find yourself making plans to hang out with someone you might have a thing for or your ex, while keeping your partner uninformed, you’re probably micro-cheating. If you’re hesitant to show your online chats to your partner ‘coz you were probably catching up with an ex and are now regularly talking to them, you’re micro-cheating.

Having said that, according to some examples on the internet, if you complimented someone on how they look but didn’t inform your partner about it also counts as micro-cheating. Isn’t that a little bizarre? Especially ‘coz you didn’t compliment them with an intention to hurt your partner! Those two could be completely different situations.

What’s the legitimacy of this term?

Whatever falls under the micro-cheating criteria is something that’s being done since many years, and now, it just has a new terminology. We believe that in a relationship, only the people involved are the ones to mutually agree upon what’s right and what isn’t. Extremely oddly specific examples of what micro-cheating could be are all over the internet and people are not happy about them. Most of them sound like gestures of niceness or friendliness without any wrong intentions, so why exactly put these wide varieties of behaviour into a vague term called micro-cheating?

TL;DR : Micro-cheating is “subtle betrayal” that’s been characterised by some specific examples of behaviour by a psychologist.

What are your thoughts?

Image credits: mashable.com

• 1. The hipster
• 4. The gym freak

1. The hipster

This guy is probably the easiest to recognise. In his pictures, he’ll probably be wearing a beanie or a beard, wearing plaid and his bio will talk about his love for Mumford and Sons. Although this guy sounds okay, there’s a reason you shouldn’t swipe right for him: it’ll take him forever to actually ask you to hang out. And when he does, he’ll ask you to hang out with him and friends, and they’ll probably only talk about Anime and want to eat at this obscure organic restaurant.

2. The almost-frat boy

You’ll recognise the almost-frat guy just by the pictures he uploads on the app. What are these pictures like? They’ll be blurry shots of him at parties, with a number of different, beautiful women. His bio’s also likely to talk about his love for beer and partying. Why should you swipe left? Well, it’s probably because he isn’t looking for anything serious, and just needs a date to the n number of parties he goes to.

3. The lonely musician

His profile will comprise pictures of him in a hoodie playing the guitar or ukulele, and won’t be too clear, and he couldn’t be bothered. Why should you swipe left? Well, this guy’s surely a music snob, and will probably scoff at your taste in music.

4. The gym freak

How do you recognise the gym freak? It’s simple. His pictures will give him away. These pictures will show him mid-crunch or mid-workout showing off his biceps and abs in the form of way to many shirtless pictures. Why would you want a guy who has such a clear need to make you aware of his strength? Just swipe left.

5. The guy whose face is a mystery

This guy’s super easy to spot on Tinder. Also known as ‘the catfish,’ you’ll surely recognise this guy from his not-so-clear pictures. You’ll find that almost all of his pictures barely include him, or have him minutely present in the background. The reason you should swipe left on him, is because he’s the kind of guy who’ll be ever ready to text and chat with you, but will never agree to actually meet you. And we don’t know why.

6. The one who loves emoji’s a little too much

His bio will include a bunch of emojis, as he probably attempted to tell his ‘story’ that way. But why swipe right on a guy who can’t use his words? Go on, swipe left.

• Anna Faris and Chris Pratt
• Jennifer Aniston and Brad Pitt
• Victoria and David Beckham
• Kris Jenner and Bruce Jenner
• Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds
• Ellen and Portia De Rossi

Anna Faris and Chris Pratt

The ex-couple announced their legal separation and shattered the world. They mentioned that they “tried hard for a very long time”, but things didn’t work out (obviously). Shortly after, Anna opened up about toxic relationships and how it only makes sense to get out of relationships where someone doesn’t have your back, or doesn’t fully value you. We couldn’t agree more!

Jennifer Aniston and Brad Pitt

Everyone sympathized with the heartbroken Jennifer Aniston when Brad Pitt cheated on her with Angelina Jolie while being married to her. She told Vanity Fair how she wished she wouldn’t have had to go through her feelings in front of the world and how she really tried hard to “rise above it”.

Victoria and David Beckham

One of the most loved couples of all time and parents to four adorable children, Victoria and David Beckham have been now married for 18 years and are still going strong. They’re the ideal couple giving everyone around the world some serious relationship goals. In an interview, David opened up about the inevitable mistakes he made in his marriage. He said, “We all know marriage is difficult at times” and how “working through the mistakes” made his marriage strong again.

Kris Jenner and Bruce Jenner

Kris Jenner handled the whole Bruce Jenner (Now, Caitlyn) scenario extremely level-headedly. She addressed themselves as “well-rounded human beings going through a tough time”. She started how they “work together” to make sure they’re both happy. Honestly, that’s very sweet and an extremely matured thing to do. We love how they hang out together and have their share of fun even after all those years of relationship problems.

Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds

Social media is full of Blake-Ryan appreciation posts and videos but according to Blake, that’s just one aspect of their relationship. In an interview, she talked about her marriage coming with its fair share of problems and how she and Ryan talk it out more in a best friend way rather than a conventional couple. You go Blake and Ryan.

Ellen and Portia De Rossi

The couple had been going through quite some relationship problems but everything seems to be well now. They celebrated their 9^th wedding anniversary in August, but there were also divorce rumours that Portia denied by stating that they “talk about everything and never ever, ever lie to each other”. She described Ellen as her “best friend” and claimed that she wants to be with her all the time. Awwdorable!

Image credits: usatoday.com, nydailynews.com, ibtimes.com, missinfo.tv, popsugar.com, people.com

• Case 1: Recurring arguments
• Case 2: Infidelity
• Case 3: Wanting space
• Case 4: Irreconcilable differences
• Case 5: Future plans
• Case 6: All consuming

Case 1: Recurring arguments

Been arguing for too long? Or do you find yourself constantly coming back to the same unresolved issues again and again? If yes, then best to find an effective way to communicate with your partner or else you'd be risking stagnating your relationship, which may or may not lead to an eventual end. Take some time out, to analyze and evaluate, just what it is that you want.

Verdict: Take a break

Case 2: Infidelity

While a few things can be overlooked for the greater good of the relationship, few are just plain deal breakers—such as cheating and infidelity. You may have a forgiving heart but he did take you for granted. Hard as that might be to digest, can't let it happen again. This is where you draw the line and call it quits.

Verdict: Breakup

Case 3: Wanting space

You may love each other a whole lot but no relationship should consume your being. If you constantly feel the need to get some breathing room, from a nagging partner or an understanding one that just demands too much of your time—please pause (not halt). You'll need it to bring some balance back into your life.

Verdict: Take a break

Case 4: Irreconcilable differences

These aren't the regular spats you have with your S.O., these are differences that are called dead ends because you seem to have reached an impasse. Could be difference of opinions, or issues regarding long term plans (career, marriage, kids), that you can’t seem to find common grounds for. Watch out, for these could bring you down in the long run—and you don’t want that!

Verdict: Breakup

Case 5: Future plans

You've been together for a while now and it's been great but where are the two of you really headed? You're both growing individually, in career and life, but is the relationship growing as well? If not, you may want to reevaluate your relationship to get a realistic picture of how much in-sync it is with your future. Better to take a temporary halt than to end it forever.

Verdict: Take a break

Case 6: All consuming

If despite having taken time off, the relationship still seems to consume you and you’re not able to give as much time to your other priorities, your relationship may not be the most suitable thing for you at this point. You’ve got other things to do too. So while losing one thing may be hard, think about the various other things you’d be gaining in place of it.

Verdict: Breakup

• Go dessert hopping
• Fill yourself up with sap
• Choose your hoes over bros
• Make it about you
• Have a Secret Valentine

Go dessert hopping

The ultimate Valentine’s Day celebration for all the foodies out there. With the variety of limited editions of donuts, macarons and cakes available in your favorite eateries, you’re sure to feel the love in the air—but this time, for food.

Fill yourself up with sap

What’s Valentine’s without a little sap? Build your very own fort of blankets and get all comfy on this February night, bawling at the intensity with which Ryan Gosling says, ‘It wasn't over, it still isn't over!’ in The Notebook or laughing at the possibility of Pretty Woman ever happening in reality. Just saying!

Choose your hoes over bros

Meet your girlfriends, head to your favorite club, vow to not utter anything about (or hit on) boys there—or show up at a romantic restaurant dressed up in all-black just to balance out the red and pink in the air. It's all okay long as you're having fun. There are no rules.

Make it about you

Because if you won't, then who will? This could sound cliché, but think of the last time you actually did something solely for yourself—right? So take yourself out, treat yourself to your wish list—hell, plug in and sing along to Valentine's Day by Linkin Park just because. You're allowed to do whatever you want.

Have a Secret Valentine

Just like Secret Santa, except this time, you'd be each other’s secret Valentine. And it gets better, since you'd be playing it with your best girlfriends, you're bound to get presents you'd really care about as opposed to receiving things simply out of goodwill.

Or, on a more realistic note, actually be busy. There's nothing wrong with hitting the gym, or carrying on with your usual tasks like you would on any other day. Because life doesn’t necessarily have to take a pause just because it’s Valentine’s.

Image Credits: Food Network, Pinterest, The Athena Cinema, Hollywood, The Huffington Post

• 1. She borrows too much
• 2. She’s all too nosy
• 3. She’s way too messy
• 4. She’s always late on payments
• 5. She's a tag along
• 6. She has a lot of people over
• 7. She feels too much
• 8. She's way too needy

1. She borrows too much

What started out as a genuine reason for a date night that you were both excited about, soon turned into a habit. What's worse—she started giving you a heads up over texts of the things she'd borrow while you were out.

Verdict—No no no. No can do. ✋

2. She’s all too nosy

An argument over a girl with your boyfriend or a squabble over money with your parents—she's listening to it all. She may pretend to be busy watching the TV, but you know too well where her ears are at.

Verdict—Time to get rid of!

3. She’s way too messy

If she's the perpetually late kind, don't judge her too hard—chances are, you are too. But leaving a messy room behind, with unwashed dishes in the sink, and last night's garbage still in the can—she’s not getting away with this.

Verdict—I’m putting my foot down!

4. She’s always late on payments

So we've established that she's Late Kate. Still not reason enough for you to hear rants from an angry landlord. Or your WiFi getting disconnected. Or your electricity being cut off.

Verdict—Either pay up or move out! ➡

5. She's a tag along

Remember how she was nosy? Of course she knows about your plans with your friends and she's semi-ready already. She knows you couldn't refuse, after all, how peaceful would you be ruining ties with the person you bunk with?

Verdict—Back the hell off!

6. She has a lot of people over

So she could either be a self-invitee or the opposite—an inviter. Calling all her people over to her crib like she owns it, she has little regard for how you'd react when you unlocked that door. Because YOLO.

Verdict—YOLO outside my house, yo!

7. She feels too much

Oh, she who feels too much. An argument with the boyfriend and it's the end of the world and the start of the water works. A little drama’s okay, but what’s not are the intentionally loud wails, and the annoying laughter in between, only to go back to crying. Jeez!

Verdict—Give me a break!

8. She's way too needy

Not sure if she has esteem issues or is just needy by nature, but her nagging questions on what to wear and what to order and how to pay, are starting to make you want to give her a sit-down on the difference between a roommate and a soulmate.

Verdict—Leave me alone!

Image Credits: Odyssey, Apartments.com, Tutzone, Police Magazine, Quickmeme, Realtor, Twitter, The Colby Echo