Taraji P. Henson explains the role of friends in romantic relationships

It is often said that your friends can either make or mar you. Whether it is in life generally or particularly in your romantic relationship, this statement packs a punch and Taraji P. Henson has been expounding on this message.

The American movie star says that when it comes to keeping your relationship intact and locking down happiness and genuine contentment in it, you do not have to do it alone. Your friends do have some part to play, too.

"You have to have the right people around you," she explains to xoNecole.

You need the right kind of friendships for all of life's aspects. [Credit: RD] Pulse Nigeria

Taraji who recently got engaged adds; "I have a group of friends around me that don't allow me to leave the room. You know, if me and my fiancé find ourselves with an issue, they grab hands and lock arms.”

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“They're like 'you can't leave the circle, you have to stay and figure it out.' You have to stay and figure it out because that's what 'lifetime' [commitment] is about.”

Members of your inner circle should be able to hold you down at all times. [Credit: Smagonline] Pulse Nigeria

It is also important to always bear in mind that while everyone can give you relationship advice, there is still a need to filter what you accept and what needs to be left out because it has no place in the kind of relationship you are trying to build with your partner.

“I think a lot of times it's who you're getting your advice from which would help you to sabotage your relationship," Taraji says.

Only recently, the prolific actress was also airing her thoughts on what men really, truly want from women, an opinion that is pretty apt as she features in a new movie titled "What Men Want." The movie is directed by Tracy Morgan and also features Erykah Badu.