Many people go through their schooling years with a group of friends. You see them five days a week, for eight hours a day. Suddenly, graduation begins to loom closer. Now it’s the holidays. You’re getting ready for the next big step in your life. You notice a big shift: the people you spent most of your days with, aren’t there anymore. But is it necessarily a bad thing?
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One thing we tend to forget, is that students are in a forced environment that usually gravitates them into a friendship group. Whether you’re starting up at university, work or heading off on a gap year you will discover a lot about the people you surround yourself with.
It’s not until you begin mixing with other people from outside your ‘niche’ that you realise some of those school friendships were one-sided or, you simply begin to outgrow them. Maybe your old friends are busy with preparing for their futures or you’ve had a fall out with them. Whatever the case may be, be prepared for when reality kicks in.
Remember that not everyone who enters your life is there for the right reason. When things go wrong, keep a mental note of who was there for you, and who wasn’t.
Furthermore, If your friend is talking badly about another behind their back, and then spends the whole weekend with them, don’t expect them not to do it to you. Be vigilant and remove the drama makers from your life.
Sometimes it takes misfortune for you to realise who your true friends are. In that case, look at it like a blessing in disguise and follow your instincts.
It’s important to understand the difference between networking and your real friends. Effective networking is a great way to help you accelerate in your career. Real friends will also help you succeed, as well as support you as you cry for three months about your ex-boyfriend cheating on you.
The more people you interact with and the more experiences you have in life allow you to develop greater communication skills and new found passions. The people you meet also help you grow as a person, so don’t feel you are limited to what you think you are comfortable with.
Stepping out of the box invites opportunity.
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Imagine your life journey is like a train ride. Many people will hop on and off at different stops and times. Few will remain for the entire journey. It’s those few special pals that you must cherish, and never let go.
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