7 Men Every Woman Needs in Her Life

It's nice to have a little testosterone around sometimes.

A Few Good Men - This week’s episode of Being Mary Jane took viewers deeper into Mary Jane and her bestie Greg’s relationship. They had a couple of tough conversations, but even when they’re beefing, it’s clear they still have each other’s backs. What about your man circle? Outside of your man or man-to-be—who is hopefully your perfect combination of all these gents—these are the guys who are good to have around at various times; they can help you grow and…have fun. By Kenrya Rankin (Photo: BET)

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A Few Good Men - This week’s episode of Being Mary Jane took viewers deeper into Mary Jane and her bestie Greg’s relationship. They had a couple of tough conversations, but even when they’re beefing, it’s clear they still have each other’s backs. What about your man circle? Outside of your man or man-to-be—who is hopefully your perfect combination of all these gents—these are the guys who are good to have around at various times; they can help you grow and…have fun. By Kenrya Rankin (Photo: BET)

He Tells You - When someone tells you something, believe it. He may joke that he isn’t good at relationships or even tell you straight up that he’s not ready for a commitment. Don’t be that chick who laughs it off and thinks that she can be the one to change him. You can’t. (Photo: Don Mason/CORBIS)

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The brother from another mother - Yes, it is totally possible to be close friends with a man and have no romantic feelings. In fact, the thought of kissing this dude makes you physically ill. He knows you very well, and isn’t afraid to pull your card when you’re not being true to yourself. Though you probably check in with each other every few weeks anyway, he’s also great to call for a man’s opinion when you’re dealing with man drama, and you repay the favor by helping him decipher his relationships.(Photo: Don Mason/CORBIS)

The ex who’s now the homie - Who says you have to hate someone just because your relationship didn’t work out? Not us! He knows what you’re like when you’re in love (or at least in like) and can provide valuable insight when you hit a speed bump in subsequent situations. Pick his brain! (Photo: Sam Bloomberg-Rissman/Getty Images)

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The ex who’s now the homie - Who says you have to hate someone just because your relationship didn’t work out? Not us! He knows what you’re like when you’re in love (or at least in like) and can provide valuable insight when you hit a speed bump in subsequent situations. Pick his brain! (Photo: Sam Bloomberg-Rissman/Getty Images)

Photo By Photo: Sam Bloomberg-Rissman/Getty Images

You Feel Comfortable Speaking Up - If you feel like you’d rather keep quiet or that you have to walk on eggshells around your partner, you have to ask yourself why. In a healthy relationship, you should always feel comfortable to be honest with your partner when things are bothering you about your relationship, without fear of repercussion.(Photo: Hero Images/Hero Images Inc./Hero Images/Corbis)

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The harmless flirt - You might not even know this man’s name, but if you’re honest, his sincere smile and “Good morning, Beautiful,” when you pass him on the way into your office building every morning is a nice way to start the day. A little confirmation of the obvious never hurt anyone. (Photo: Dean Mitchell/Getty Images)

The handyman - Just because you can paint your kitchen all by yourself doesn’t mean it wouldn’t be more fun with a partner. Whether it’s assembling that 342-piece Ikea wardrobe or fixing a leaky faucet, he not only knows how to help, but actually enjoys pitching in. But be sure you’re as good of a friend to him as he is to you—a good thank you meal goes a long way, and you should never lead him on to get his help. (Photo: Solstock/Getty Images)

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The handyman - Just because you can paint your kitchen all by yourself doesn’t mean it wouldn’t be more fun with a partner. Whether it’s assembling that 342-piece Ikea wardrobe or fixing a leaky faucet, he not only knows how to help, but actually enjoys pitching in. But be sure you’re as good of a friend to him as he is to you—a good thank you meal goes a long way, and you should never lead him on to get his help. (Photo: Solstock/Getty Images)

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Make Requests - Be respectful and considerate at all times. Though he clearly needs to pitch in and pick your daughter up from school when you have a late meeting, remember that making demands is a sure-fire way to get shut down. So ask him to get her from school.   (Photo: Blend Images/Corbis)

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The father figure - He could be your doting dad, your uncle who has always been there for you, or a mentor who has your back both professionally and personally. This older guy wants the best for you, and has no qualms about giving you the grown man advice you need to hear, whether you want to hear it or not. (Photo: Ariel Skelley/GettyImages)

Put Your Kids First - Even on days when you would rather slap his face than look at it, remember that your every interaction is for the benefit of your children. That will help put you in the mindset to do whatever you can to give your children the best life possible — together. Centering all your conversations on your children and their needs will help keep you on track.  (Photo: Roberto Westbrook/Blend Images/Corbis)

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The man you would NEVER date - Why? Because while he’s a good friend, he is not the settling down type. But he knows every dirty man trick in the book, and he has no problem cluing you in. Listen to him, and you can avoid more than a few Mr. Wrongs. (Photo: Blend Images/Hill Street Studios/Getty Images)

Love Should Feel Good - From the time you spend together to the sex you are having, remember that relationships should make you feel awesome, not awful. If your love doesn’t feel good, it’s time to reevaluate your relationship. (Photo: Roberto Westbrook/Blend Images/Corbis)

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The dude who’s down for safe, no-strings attached sex - This one is for the single ladies. Just because you find yourself dating yourself (raise your hand if you relish the independent time!) doesn’t mean you don’t want to get it in from time to time. This guy is totally fine with you using him for his body. Have fun! (Photo: Getty Images)