“You are the average of the five people you spend the most time with.” ― Jim Rohn
At the core, we are all wired with a sense of belongingness. Whether introvert, extrovert or ambivert, we crave fellowship and love. We desire company. We want to share our lives with others.
I once came across a tweet which read, “Your friends are God’s way of apologizing for your relatives”. I concur because we did not get to choose our family members, friends serve as a compensation for the bad ones we have. Good friends make you question the adage, “Blood is thicker than water”.
Friendships are easier to form at workplaces, schools, churches etc. Beyond those organized meetups and events, friendships require more effort to take place. Work keeps us busy and we have valid excuses not to check on our friends or even find new ones. Juggling work, family and other responsibilities can take a toll on you and prevent you from adding tasks like making new friends to your schedule.
Nevertheless, you need the right team to do life with. You need friends who will support you, root for you and be there for you. You should be a lot intentional about your friendships as you get older and build a solid circle of friends.
How To Build Your Dream Team
Be friendly
You attract what you already are. Be a good person, you will attract good people in return.
Observe and choose
Sometimes people pick off friendships with people immediately we meet them. Other times, you may be required to take your time and observe the person before you commit to any friendship. What are their values? Are they inclined to yours? What can you compromise on? What can’t you compromise on?
Quality over quantity
Everyone cannot be your cup of tea. Choose enough friends to care about. Building a team of loyal friends requires focusing on the quality of people you are bringing in and not the number of friends you have in total.
How To Maintain Your Dream Team
Water Each Other
One-sided friendships are unhealthy. Pray for each other. Collaborate on projects. Let your friendship be progressive. Show them you care.
Put effort into making it work
Make sacrifices for your friends. Schedule calls and hangouts to catch up. People recognise effort when they see it. Try to include them in your busy schedule.
Show love
You owe everyone love especially your friends. When love exists, forgiveness is present and resolving conflicts is a little easier.
What type of friends would you want in your circle? Is there an acquaintance you want to get close to? Are you ready to put in the work? What’s your dream team?
Also published on Medium.