2 Beers and a Puppy: A Helpful Test for Figuring Out Someone’s Value in Your Life

“Two Beers and a Puppy” is a test that I developed while working at Esquire. The test is: In order to find out how you actually feel about someone, ask yourself:

Would you have two beers with this person?

Would you allow this person to look after your puppy over a weekend?

Some people are no and no. These people are to be avoided at all costs. Some people are yes and no. These people are to be cautiously trusted. Some people are no and yes. These people are no fun but they make the world a better place—for puppies, especially. And some people are yes and yes. These people are wonderful people and your life and work are better for having them in your life. Seek them out. Collaborate with them. Enjoy their company.

(I recently wrote a story on Medium about how this test has become my greatest contribution to the world.)