Q13. Your friend wants to change a lifestyle habit. How do you help?

If you're anything like me, you've probably spent more time than you'd like to admit scrolling through social media, taking random quizzes that reveal everything from your ideal vacation spot to what type of bread you would be (sourdough, anyone?). But there's something about quizzes that dig into our personalities and relationships that really hits home. That's why I crafted a quiz titled "Answer These Questions To Find Out What Type Of Best Friend You Are," and one question that I’m particularly proud of dives into how you’d help a friend who's trying to change a lifestyle habit.

This question isn’t just about seeing if you’d be a good friend—it’s about understanding the different ways we all show up for the people we care about. So let’s break down the options and the thinking behind them.

Help them research the best ways to make the change (The Brainiac)

Let’s be real: we all have that one friend who’s basically Google in human form. They love to dive deep into every topic, from the best diet plans to the most effective workout routines. If you picked this option, you’re the kind of friend who believes knowledge is power. When a friend tells you they want to change a lifestyle habit, your first thought isn’t just to cheer them on—it’s to arm them with all the information they need to succeed.

You’ll likely spend hours reading up on the science behind their goal, whether it’s quitting sugar, starting a meditation practice, or getting more sleep. You’re the friend who sends them links to articles, buys them books on the subject, and maybe even helps them set up a step-by-step plan to make their goal a reality. You don’t just want them to succeed—you want them to understand the process, so they can stick with it long term. In your mind, the more they know, the better equipped they are to make a lasting change.

Constantly encourage them and celebrate every small step (The Motivator)

If you chose this option, chances are you’re the cheerleader of your friend group. You’re the one who’s always ready with a high-five or a “you’ve got this!” text message. When a friend decides to change a lifestyle habit, you’re there to keep their spirits high and remind them of how far they’ve come.

You know that change can be hard, and you believe that celebrating the small victories is just as important as reaching the big goals. Maybe your friend finally made it through a week without smoking, or they managed to wake up early every day for a month. Whatever the milestone, you’re ready to throw some confetti (even if it’s just a few emoji in a text) and make sure they know how proud you are of them.

Your encouragement isn’t just about the big picture—it’s about making sure they feel supported every step of the way. You’re not just their friend; you’re their biggest fan, and you’ll be there cheering them on from start to finish.

Work alongside them as their support system (The Listener)

For those who picked this option, you’re probably the go-to person in your circle when someone needs to talk through their thoughts and feelings. You’re patient, empathetic, and always ready to lend an ear. When your friend wants to change a lifestyle habit, your approach is all about being there, side by side, through the highs and lows.

You’re not just offering advice—you’re offering your time and your presence. Maybe you’re the friend who’ll join them for early morning jogs or sit with them as they plan out their meals for the week. You understand that change can feel overwhelming, and you want to be the steady presence that makes it a little less daunting.

Your support isn’t loud or flashy, but it’s deeply felt. You’re the one they can call when they’re feeling discouraged, and you’ll listen without judgment, offering the comfort of knowing they’re not alone in this journey. In a world full of distractions, you’re the friend who makes them feel heard and understood.

Try the new lifestyle changes with them (The Adventurer)

Choosing this option means you’re all about action and experience. You’re the friend who’s always up for trying something new, and when your friend decides to change a lifestyle habit, you’re the first to say, “Let’s do this together!” You believe that the best way to support someone is to dive in headfirst, right alongside them.

Whether it’s taking up a new exercise routine, experimenting with a different diet, or embracing mindfulness practices, you’re not just giving advice—you’re living it with them. Your enthusiasm for new experiences makes you the perfect partner in crime for any lifestyle change. You make the journey fun, turning what could be a daunting process into an exciting adventure.

You’re the kind of friend who brings energy and excitement to everything you do, and your willingness to join in makes the whole process feel less like a chore and more like a shared challenge. With you by their side, your friend feels like they’re part of a team, ready to take on the world together.

Wrapping It All Up

When it comes to helping a friend change a lifestyle habit, there’s no one “right” way to do it. Whether you’re the Brainiac, the Motivator, the Listener, or the Adventurer, each approach brings something unique to the table. What matters most is that you’re there for your friend in a way that feels genuine and supportive to both of you.

These different styles of support highlight the diverse ways we connect with our friends and show up in their lives. It’s a reminder that being a good friend isn’t about fitting into a certain mold—it’s about understanding what your friends need and being there for them in the best way you know how.

So, which friend are you? No matter your style, your support makes all the difference. And at the end of the day, that’s what being a best friend is all about.