Friends — a curated group of people who provide a reflection of who you are becoming. Friends are the family we choose.Friends influence us. We become more like our friends and they become more like us. So we should be careful with the people we choose as our friends. When choosing friends we should ask ourselves:
- Do they hold value in important things like honesty, humor, respect, loyalty and drive or motivation?
- Are they interested in your happiness and well-being?
- Can you count on them when you are in need emotionally, financially, and physically?
- Do you enjoy the time you spend together?
- How are you feeling after spending time with this friend?
- Does your friend respect your boundaries?
- Do they hear you when you vocalize your feelings (especially about their behavior)?
- Do you share common interests, and are these healthy interests?
Remember that with every relationship there are bumps. The seasons change, and rearrange, and always return after some time. With each new chapter we see different sides of our selves, and get closer to seeing the other side of the coin. Luckily, our friends grow with us. Here's to lasting friendships!