You've been best buds since the first grade, shared everything from study time to secrets, and have been there for one another through good times and bad. You even share the same great taste when it comes to picking significant others. But what happens when you're so in sync with your pal that you both fall for the same guy or girl?

Carol Weston, author of For Teens Only: Quotes, Notes, and Advice You Can Use, says it's not unusual for two friends to fall for the same person at once. The reason? "Many friends share similar tastes as well as the very same classmates!" Since you and your friends are likely to be drawn to similar types of people, and you'll be meeting the same girls and guys at various social gatherings, it only makes sense that you might focus your attention on the same person.

The Heart of the Matter

Handling this sticky situation is no easy matter. Weston suggests getting it out in the open before things get sneaky and more hurtful. "I really liked this guy and thought my friend liked him, too," says Tamryn, 17. "Instead of waiting to see what would happen, I flat out asked her if she liked him. We were honest with each other about how we felt and agreed to pursue different guys." Talking about your mutual feelings is a great idea and can even strengthen your friendship. According to Weston, some friends even make a pact to not let a relationship come between them.

But what should you do if the girl or guy you're crushing on returns your affections? You'll suddenly be faced with some really tough decisions. "You have to get your priorities straight," says Brigitte, 19. "Romance comes and goes, but good friends, on the other hand, can last a lifetime. You have to ask yourself if losing a friend is worth it for this boy or girl."

For Love or Friendship

For Jacob, 19, going for the girl was a positive experience. "I asked my friend if he would be cool with me asking out a girl we both liked. He said it was okay, so I did. I've been dating that same girl for two years now, and the three of us are all good friends."

Malcolm's situation, on the other hand, wasn't as picture-perfect. "My best friend and I liked the same guy, and after talking about it, we agreed not go to for him. But I did anyway, and when my friend found out, he was really hurt," says Malcolm, 16. "I really regret turning on my friend, especially since the relationship went nowhere."

Before moving forward with a potential relationship, consider the value of your friendship. Explain how you feel to your friend, trying to make clear how important this new person is to you. If your friend is willing to step aside without bad feelings, give the romance a try. If your friend is hurt and resentful, however, you might want to reconsider. "A long-term friendship is more important than a long-shot chance at romance," says Weston. "So first ask yourself what you're willing to give up."

Too Much in Common?

Liking the same girl or guy as your best friend is a common problem, regardless of your gender or sexual orientation. And since no two circumstances are the same, careful thought should factor into any decision-making process.

The key to surviving a common crush starts with communication. Honesty goes a long way, as does respect for your friends. If all else fails, laughter is always a good remedy. "My best friend and I liked the same guy and we used to joke about it," says Rebecca, 18. "We used to say 'Well, he's cool and we're cool, so of course we both like him!' We agreed we both had great taste and moved on!"