Do You Nurture Friendships?
Does Work Interfere with Friendships?
Not too long ago, a friend told me that during the pandemic, when she had lots of time for reflection, she realized that she was never good at nurturing friendships. Her family and high-profile career took up so much of her time that there was rarely room for socializing. She loved her friends and valued them, but the time to nurture those relationships was beyond her reach.
A Moment of Self-Reflection
Later that evening, as I pondered her words during a moment of self-reflection, I realized that my life was very much the same. As an adult, I’ve never wanted to be someone’s best friend because along with that honor came a level of obligation and commitment of time that I didn’t have. I love my friends equally, treasure each of them for their differences, and I love how those differences enrich my life. We all need social time with friends. It’s part of wellness.
Do Your Friends Understand the Life is Busy?
My friends understand that life is busy, and when you have time to reach out you will – without guilt, remorse, shame, or a need to explain. We love and respect each other, and when we finally have time to get together and catch up on each other’s lives, we treasure that moment. When our time together comes to an end, we understand that at some point, at a date yet to be determined, we will see each other again and enjoy the time we have.
Some Friends are With You for the Long Haul
People come and go in life. Some are meant to be with us for a short time and then go their own way. Maybe we were supposed to learn something from them, or perhaps we were meant to teach them something. But others are with us for the long haul, rejoicing during good times, and when things are bad, listening, quietly offering support, and lending advice when appropriate.
Do Your friends Feel Appreciated?
The bottom line is that it’s okay to be busy and put your family and career first. After all, you have to be able to put food on the table and a roof over your head. Follow your dreams, but don’t let the friendships you are grateful for fade away. Pick up the phone, send an email, or type a quick text to let friends know you’re thinking of them and that you hope to get together soon. Sometimes, that’s all it takes to make someone smile and feel appreciated. Quite often, it’s what makes their whole day brighter.
Until next time,
Jean AKA The Strategic Chicken - Making life’s journey one strategic step at a time
