This is hard to write, even at the ripe age of 32, it's pretty embarrassing to think I thought I was the special snowflake that is 'one of the boys'. I wish someone had told me earlier, so if this helps anyone else I should write it.

At least one of your buddies wants to have sex with you

It's a tale as old as time (and an old joke on reddit): the friendzone. I assure you that even if you feel like you have made it clear to these guys that you aren't interested they are still hoping against all hopes you will cave and be with them. Even if you rebuff their advances and offers to help you, most likely you still hang around them because you are all in the same group and their feelings are not going to change over night.

You are adding stress to your buddys' relationships

If you are thinking that there is no way your buddy is in the friendzone because he has an amazing awesome girlfriend who is so understanding because she just 'gets' that you are one of his 'guy friends' she probably isn't as cool with you as you think. Worst case scenario she's just trying to play the cool girlfriend card who doesn't mind. But even if she does like you, you are still probably a point of discontent in their relationship because bottom line is most people don't want their significant other regularly bonding with someone of the opposite sex without them. If this girl is so awesome what you should be doing is inviting that cute next door neighbor on a double date with this couple and becoming friends with both of them, not being 'his guy friend'.

You are ruining your own dating life

Speaking of that cute guy next door have you even spoken to him? No, because when your car broke down instead of risking being vulnerable you did the safe, comfortable thing by asking your buddy for help. When you don't have that safety net you have to come out of your bubble. That vulnerability makes you do things you wouldn't normally do and it bonds you with the person that goes out of their way to help you. Would you believe I walked past by my husband at least 2 times before we ever talked to each other? He always thought I was dating someone else. It wasn't until a year later when my group of buddies split up that the pieces came together. Don't make those mistakes, learn from mine.