I really liked your post, @caratzky! I second what @futurethinker says here. I'm in the same position as you, and my team members are also my friends. Sometimes I can be just a friend and colleague, and other times I have to make not so pleasant decisions, but I do want to be seen as their equal, not their boss =). You can lead by example and by being wise and fair, and people will automatically recognize you as their leader.