Best friends make life so much more lively. Having someone you're so comfortable with and that knows the real you makes for a connection that can never be found anywhere else. Here are a few things that special best-friend-connection brings along:

1. Have the best inside jokes that nobody will ever understand.

Who else knows about that one embarrassing time in third grade and brings it up in normal conversation? Good laughs come from good memories, and you've shared a lot of those with your best friend throughout your time together.

2. Take a nap at their place and call it "hanging out."

Who else are you this comfortable with? Best friends are the perfect people to just hang out and chill with when you feel like recharging. Plus, they won't question it.

3. You always do stuff with them because they make it fun.

It's always a good time when you have your partner in crime right by your side. They bring extra laughs and more fun!

4. Even after a long time of not seeing each other, you can talk like you never left.

Best friends just get it. You both know you won't be able to talk every day and that's alright. You miss each other and always think of one another, but you know as soon as you see them again, it's like there was never any space between you two.

5. You don't need to look nice in front of them because they've seen you at your worst already.

They've seen you after your breakups and after your favorite show's finale. There is absolutely no need to worry about what you look like in front of them, they love you for you.

6. Tell people you're related because you basically are.

People see you guys together all the time, so besides being mistaken as a couple, you're also mistaken as siblings or cousins. But I mean, they're basically right, right?

7. Share secrets without worrying about anybody finding out.

You don't even have to tell them to not tell anyone else—they just know. They respect your privacy and you respect theirs, so they keep your secrets and help you when no one else can.

8. Ask them for honest advice about relationships.

You know it's a big deal when your best friend does (or doesn't) like your significant other. Your best friend, of all people, knows how well you deserve to be treated and if this person doesn't make the cut, then maybe you should step cautiously.

9. Tell them how much you love and appreciate them without hesitating.

This is someone you know you want to spend time with. You want to see them for the rest of your life. So tell them how much you love them and appreciate them because life doesn't last forever. Friends were made to love and be loved.

Written for my best friend, Lauren.