When faced with a difficult or problematic situation, our friends are often the first people we turn to as a compassionate sounding board. True friends not only have our back; they often jump at the chance to commemorate the joyful occasions as well as our victories and successes.
Geographical distance and overflowing schedules can be a challenge to remaining connected with good friends on a consistent basis. When the weeks between visits turn into months and sometimes years, we feel regretful for not making the time to nurture these relationships. Additionally, we miss out on the opportunity of filling each other's cups.
This past year, one of my dear friends and I decided to stop the cycle of fret and regret. We now schedule a few hours on a morning once a month to hang out, support and celebrate each other, share our visions and dreams as well as brainstorm ideas and strategies regarding our lives and businesses.
Breakfast of Champions rolled off my tongue one day and resonated with my friend. Since she and I are naturally committed to championing each other and the people in our lives, it seemed fitting.
Spending time with good friends, whether face to face or virtually, usually infuses me with joy and ramps up my creativity. Afterwards, I typically return to my office stoked about birthing an idea or a project that I've been incubating.
Despite missing them, a jam-packed schedule, lengthy To-Do list or projects with looming deadlines can send us into a compelling story about not having enough time right now to contact a good friend. The thought of taking that valuable time may fire up concerns that something "very important" will have to be sacrificed in the process!
What would it be to challenge your story? If you are still concerned that time away from your work or the demands of your personal schedule would have a negative impact, test out how taking time to connect with a friend over lunch can change your outlook. You do have to eat at some point!
Still not convinced? Start by blocking a one hour time period once a week to reconnect, either face to face or virtually, with a good friend with whom you have not spoken to in a while.
After your encounter, check in with yourself to see how you feel. What do you notice there is now more of or less of?
How might scheduling time to consistently visit with valued and trusted friends deepen and strengthen your relationships while also enhancing your own fulfillment? In what ways do you sense this might impact your creativity and productivity?
I invite you to leave a comment.
