"Date your best friend!"

It's one of the biggest dating advice cliches out there, but I'm here to tell you, it's absolutely good advice. I used to think it was more interesting to date someone who I had almost nothing in common with because we would "balance each other out" or something like that. However, all that happens is you end up frustrated or uncomfortable over those differences. When you date someone who you have similar interests, you develop a special bond with them, and it gets pretty fun from there! Here are seven things that happen.

1. You lose all shyness. It's different for all couples, but my boyfriend and I both have Crohn's disease. Having that in common and being able to relate meant we have never been shy about discussing all things digestive. As a girl, this was a really nice obstacle to dodge.

2. You take the time to learn about each other's interests. We already liked a lot of the same movies and music, but over time we seized what differences we had as opportunities to learn about each other. I listen to his strange underground music as he reads my copy of The Bell Jar.

3. Being together does not require conversation. This one is all about comfort. We spend so much time talking, joking around, and debating, that sometimes it's nice to just sit in silence. I will play around on my phone while he's reading on his laptop, and there's nothing awkward or strained about it. When you enjoy someone's mere presence, these moments can be much more comforting than any conversation.

4. Being apart is never a stressful thing. Sure, we never get sick of each other, and we always have fun together. However, life happens and we end up being apart for days at a time, and it's not fun for either of us. It's pretty boring not being able to hangout with your best friend for a few days, right? The great thing is that we don't stress about distance or time apart, because we both know the other is dying of boredom and ready to be back together. There's always something to look forward to.

5. They are the first choice for any trips or events. If there's a movie I want to see or a concert that I'd like to go to, he is always the first to know about it. My best friend is who I want to do all those things with. It's also a wonderful opportunity to learn new things about each other by having new experiences together.

6. No one is better to help keep you on track. The best kind of best friend is the one who will hold you responsible for your goals and cares about your well-being. I think it's always a good idea to date someone who will give you constructive criticism when you bomb an exam and will scold you when you don't go to the doctor when you should. It's never a bad thing to have a significant other that is looking out for you.

7. Some of the happiest moments are shared with significant others and best friends. It is really special to date someone who you can make all sorts of wonderful memories with as lovers and friends. The bond that that creates is one to last a life time.