IWalking behind the happy couple, awkwardly standing there when PDA is exchanged and being left out on the inside couple jokes are experiences that I know all too well. Being the third wheel happens so often to me that I could pretty much just put it on my resume. (I can see it now… “professional third wheeler”). Being the third wheel can be painfully awkward and embarrassing sometimes, but I have come up with some tips on how to be a good third wheel.

1. Don’t just talk to your friend. Talk to your friend’s partner too.

Being the third wheel can have its benefits. You get to see how the couple interacts. You also get the opportunity to make (lowkey) judgments about the new partner. It’s best when you can get a feel for the kind of person your friend is dating. You get to see if they’re worthy enough. Plus, it’s the perfect opportunity to make a new friend.

2. Don’t ask about inside jokes.

Trust me, you probably don’t want to know. It’s also really awkward when they explain the story and use the whole “you had to be there” explanation. Trust me, been there done that.

3. Don’t exclude yourself.

Yes, you’re the third wheel but that doesn’t mean you should isolate yourself. It's easy to let the couple take the lead, especially if they're still in their "honeymoon phase," but it makes the situation less awkward if you chime into conversations.

4. Don’t talk about you the sad parts of living the single life.

Nobody likes to be around that bitter single person. It’s funny to make a joke here and there sometimes, but you can only make so many single jokes before it just gets sad (and probably slightly annoying). You're more than a sob story. Embrace your single-ness.

5. Praise (don’t hate on) the relationship.

It can be awkward enough being the third wheel. Don’t make it more awkward by hating on the couple. Yes, that means you should probably hold back the gagging when they hold hands or do cute, couple-y things.

Follow these tips and it should make third-wheeling a little more bearable. Being the third wheel isn't all bad. You just need to know how to make the best out of an awkward situation. Remember it’s only awkward if you make it awkward.