2 beers and a puppy | 2.5 minute read

I recently read something about life and relationships that I’ll never forget. This is rare — as I’m sure you can relate — since we’re constantly bombarded by information, advice, and entertainment all day, every day. We scroll, we look, we forget. Not this time.

It’s the two beers and a puppy test. It’s simple, really, but it’ll tell you a lot about yourself and the people you surround yourself with. It’s a thought exercise that goes like this. Pick a person in your life. Could be anyone. Ask yourself:

1. Would I want to have two beers with this person?

2. Would I trust them to look after my puppy over a weekend?

If the answer to question one is yes, you enjoy that person’s company enough to spend a decent amount of time with them. If the answer to question two is yes, you trust them enough to care for one of the most precious things in your life.

The details don’t matter (it could be a coffee and a walk in the park, and loaning them your car); it’s the answers that matter.

Now, look inward and ask yourself: Am I someone others would want to have two beers with? Would they trust me with their puppy? If not, what can I do to become someone who passes the test?

And if you feel like someone in your life isn’t hitting the mark on both the questions, that’s OK.

“It doesn’t necessarily mean you stop investing in the relationship,” writes Ross McCammon, the inventor of this thought experiment. “Maybe an investment is exactly what the relationship needs.”

The pebble

The challenge

Get together with a friend and have a couple beers. Or a tea. Or just a walk.

Thanks for reading. Feeling generous? Send this to someone who passes the two beers and a puppy test.