Should you bail on your bestie?

This year, you're vowing that all your friendships will be positive, easy and drama-free. Because that's the way it should be, right? A true friend doesn't stir things up and is 100% reliable, right? Actually...not necessarily.

If you've got a bud (or buds) with toxic traits, you don't have to boot them. The trick is learning how to manage your reactions to their questionable characteristics so you can keep the friendship intact-and make it work in your favor. Here's how.

THE CRITIC

You cut your own bangs and she's not feeling the look? DW, she'll let you know...and bring you to her salon for a quick fix. You've been beyond cranky lately? She'll call you out at the lunch table and ask what's up. This friend is straightforward and outspoken. Her brutal honesty can sting-but it also can save the day. After all, this is not a girl who'll let you walk around all day with spinach in your teeth. She'll talk you out of buying that chartreuse sweater that washes you out or clue you in that your crush is a player. She speaks from the hearteven when it hurts.

MAKE IT WORK

Turn to her when you need an honest opinion. Choosing a firstdate outfit? FT her. Need an ego boost even when you know you're in the wrong? Call, um, anybody but her. As long as you don't have unrealistic expectations, it'll be easier to appreciate how rock solid and reliable she really can be.

WHEN TO BAIL If she's constantly critiquing everything, all the time, reassess the sitch. Insulting you in front of the crew isn't constructive criticism-it's cruel. A thoughtful friend can still serve it up straight without going on the attack.

THE DRAMA QUEEN