Lately, I've been feeling like I have no best friend. All the girls at my school don't really seem to fit my personality. I have a really close friend right now but sometimes she just gets on my nerves and I feel like she copies some of the things I do. 

It must be really hard for you to not have any close friends to talk to. It also must be very annoying to have a copycat in your life. When I was a freshman in high school, I didn’t have any close friends either. I also felt pent up with my own secrets as well. I can definitely relate to you on this sitch. You must be feeling alone right now, but there are definitely ways to fix this dilemma.

First off, give people a chance. Yeah, a lot of the girls may not mesh well with your unique personality but you can always learn something new. Try sitting with diff groups at lunch every day. Do you and the girl from art class love the same music? Join her in the caf on Tuesday. Need help with your math homework? Ask the class brainiac if he/she wants to grab a bite. After a while, you're sure to find a few friends you like and maybe even a BFF.

Don't forget to get involved. Join an after school sport, activity or even volunteer. When I got involved in my school’s psychology club, I made a lot of new friends that have stayed with me after I graduated high school. At first, I didn’t think that any of them had much in common with me. But, after getting to know everyone, we all hit it off. By getting involved, you have something worthwhile to do, a mega confidence boost and new pals with similar interests.

And start opening up.  At this point, you know some people you can talk to but on what level? If you feel comfortable chilling with them after school or eating a sundae at your local Dairy Queen, start handing out your email, phone number or aim sn.  The more time you spend with people, the more comfortable you will feel opening up. So, why not have a gab sesh with the goalie after hockey practice instead of heading home like you usually do? Taking little extra steps will steer you in the right direction when it comes to making more BFFs.

As for your copycat chica? When she copies you don't comment on it. But the next time she does something that's sooo totally her, give her a compliment. Seen her wearing a new dress? Say, "WOW. You look great in green. That color looks awful on me, I'm jeal!" If that still doesn't work tell her (gently!) how you feel.

Also, you may feel like your old bff is lying to you because you guys aren’t as close anymore. Growing apart happens in lots of friendship, so try talking to her more. Set a weekly phone catch-up, write each other emails or send her a snail mail scrapbook of fun pics. Also, invite her over to your house for a movie night, or help raise money for “Relay for Life” together. By putting in extra effort, she will put effort back. If you still feel like she's lying, then confront her and ask her what's up.

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4/15/2009 7:00:00 AM