The case for fewer friends

Having lots of friends does have benefits. Research shows that people who regularly interacted with 10 or more friends in midlife have higher levels of psychological well-being than those who had fewer than 10.

But you don't need dozens of friends to enjoy the fruits of friendship. Even having one friend is a net positive. Instead of trying to keep in contact with everyone you've ever met, consider the value of a few close confidants.

A study by evolutionary psychologist Robin Dunbar showed that people could cognitively handle up to 150 meaningful social relationships (including family and friends). Out of those connections, Dunbar found that people can have five close friendships.

Those in whom you've invested the most time are likely to be part of the inner circle of intimate friends. Here you can be unabashedly yourself without the need to self-censor or perform. They make you feel energised, comfortable, restored, authentic, valued, and vulnerable, and in turn, you also delight in supporting them.