The People Every Person Should Keep in Their Contact List
Every phone is full of names—coworkers, ex-classmates, and people you met once at a birthday party. But in the middle of all that digital clutter, there are a few contacts that are a must. These are practical lifelines and go-to guides for the stuff that really matters.
The Mechanic Who Actually Calls You Back
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Car trouble always shows up when it’s least convenient. Knowing a reliable, straightforward mechanic means skipping the hassle with repairs and avoiding upsells you don’t need. Once you find one who explains things clearly and sticks to timelines, keep that number close.
Your Health Proxy or Emergency Contact
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Having one person who knows your medications and what hospital to send you to could be life-saving. It’s best if this person also knows how to reach other family members and has access to documents like your health directive. Keep their info updated both digitally and on paper.
A Lawyer You Can Actually Talk To
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Legal issues don’t always come with warnings. Traffic citations, lease disputes, contract questions—having a lawyer you trust cuts down stress. You don’t need to call them often, but when something does come up, that number will be more valuable than a random Google search.
A Local Handyman Who’s Not Booked Until 2026
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Small home repairs can become big problems if they drag on. A reliable handyman can fix the wobbly shelf or the slow-draining sink before it turns into a full-blown project. Contractors often specialize, but a good all-rounder is worth holding on to.
The Friend Who Knows Your Wi-Fi Passwords and Your Backup Plan
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This is the person who has your Wi-Fi password memorized and could guide your parents through resetting your Apple ID if needed. They know where your emergency stash is, can vouch for your whereabouts, and probably what your go-to takeout order is.
A Tailor Who Can Rescue Your Favorite Pants
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Most off-the-rack clothes aren’t made for your exact shape. A skilled tailor can make cheap clothes look expensive, or at least wearable. Adjusting hems or repairing tears takes far less time and money than buying new outfits.
A Hair Professional Who Gets It
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A consistent barber or stylist saves you from the awkward small talk that comes with hopping between chairs. A 2022 YouGov poll found that most Americans get their haircut every 6–8 weeks—so that’s a lot of chances for regret without a go-to expert.
A Neighbor Who Actually Likes Living Near You
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Knowing someone on your block who notices odd activity or picks up a package when you’re away makes life easier. They’ve probably been around longer, know who to call about local issues, and might already have the number for the guy who clears sidewalks.
Your Accountant—Even if You Think You Don’t Need One
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Sure, apps like TurboTax exist, but an accountant can often find deductions you’d miss, especially if you freelance or switch jobs mid-year. The IRS changes tax codes often enough that it’s easy to mess up. The American Institute of CPAs has a searchable directory to help find someone who fits you.
A Mentor Who Isn’t Trying to Sell You Anything
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Mentors have likely been through similar professional dilemmas as you and can offer insight that goes beyond HR manuals or motivational posts. This could be a former manager or a friend in another industry who gives unfiltered advice. When you’re torn between job offers or thinking about quitting, this is the person to call.