Ah, friendship, that’s a topic that never gets old. Well, maybe it sounds cheesy, but hear me out—it’s actually pretty important. In fact, it’s dangerous territory!
Over the years, I’ve become more mindful of who I let into my inner circle. Sure, I make plenty of connections, but true friends? Those are a rare breed. It’s not about being picky, but rather about finding peace of mind.
Lately, I’ve distanced myself from people who don’t align with my values. It’s crucial for my family and me to surround ourselves with friends who possess these qualities:
- Positive; they have a positive look at everything and everyone; they’re emotional sometimes but always see the light at the end of the tunnel.
- Respectful; they don’t judge others, they don’t gossip about others, and always say something nice or nothing at all. They also respect animals and the environment.
- Supportive; we lift each other higher, not push ourselves down. In bad times, in ideas, in new ventures and plans or even weekend plans! We encourage each other to be better in every way.
- Add value to our lives, be it a book they’ve read, a thought they came across, a new idea that is too crazy and will change the world!
- Non-materialistic; My husband and I are trying to live a minimalistic life, at least compared to our circle. We fail many times, especially with a toddler girl with a tendency to be materialistic (haha! it’s true!) We try, and it’s important to have people around us who don’t run after things and keep stacking stuff because they’re cheap or nice.
- Confident and independent, having lived abroad for some time, we became very independent in the sense that we don’t wait for anyone’s approval of who we are or what we choose to be. It’s essential to surround ourselves with not high maintenance and not looking for reassurance of our friendship or love every second. We can be different, which definitely adds to our friendship and does not take away from it.
As much as it’s important to surround yourself with people with the above traits, it’s also important to stay away from people who are the opposite. No one wants negativity in their lives, even if it comes from the closest person to you. I don’t want to hear who did what because I’m busy with what I want to be and do and what my kid wants to be. It’s not easy. Actually, it’s tough to resist these people because what they are is easy and fun! But also momentary and not productive.
The next time your friend is negative or judgmental or not respectful or supportive, tell them to stop. Help them and yourself to be better. Lift yourselves higher.
I’m thankful for old friends and new, those who taught me to be better by setting an example and their support and encouragement.