There is always that stigma that third-wheeling is a miserable experience and just unenjoyable for the extra person. When confronted with that situation many people decide to pass and eat tubs of ice cream watching rom coms alone. Personally, I don’t think third-wheeling is all that bad. Nor do I believe other people should assume it is. Unless you know the couple is not fun to third-wheel with, most couples are considerate of your presence and give you their utmost respect.

All my life I’ve been third-wheeling, from my best friend and her first love to my roommate and her boyfriend. I welcome third-wheeling with open arms completely optimistic about what would come of each experience. I have seen love in many shapes and forms. I have also witnessed fights and makeups. Even though these relationships do not directly affect me I learn from them as if they are my own.

One of my sisters is three years older than me and we have always been close growing up. Naturally, it was no surprise that when she got a boyfriend he and I had to get along. At first I was a little hesitant to third-wheel with them for fear of feeling left out. Our first time together was a concert and I remember thinking “great, a whole concert by myself basically”. But it was the complete opposite, ironically it was my sister who was third-wheeling. Now I know you’re probably thinking what a weird relationship, but no her boyfriend and I were merely like brother and sister. We had our own inside jokes, while he and my sister had their own as well. Every conversation or event with them I always feel included and comfortable although I’m entirely third-wheeling.

My mom still jokes around by saying he is basically dating both of us. We still go places together all the time, and I never once think anything of it. I think third-wheeling is extremely helpful in being comfortable alone with yourself, and learning to love yourself before you try to pass that job onto a significant other. It also teaches you how to interact with people solely for the purpose of having actual conversations regarding any kind of topic. Sometimes the couple you are third-wheeling with can give you relationship advice that may or may not be helpful, but hearing someone else’s point of view is helpful.

If you are confronted with the situation where you must third-wheel I say go for it. What’s the worst that could happen? Whether the event goes good or bad you’ll be able to learn from the situation on how to treat others respectfully so they feel comfortable. The ability to see someone you are close with happy is no better proof that sooner or later you will not be third-wheeling any longer.