How often do you spend with your friends? Once you have a partner or are married with kids plus have a full-time job, it can be quite challenging to put aside time for friends. However, it’s a very important part of your wellness wheel.
As it is important to give time to yourself, it’s just as necessary to spend a little time apart from your spouse, partner, and/or kids. I don’t mean you shouldn’t be there for your family and certainly don’t mean that you shouldn’t first prioritize family time, but it’s crucial to spend time with others as well, since your interests/hobbies or topics of discussion may be better suited with your friends.
For example, my husband and I have a lot in common and have most of the same friends, so usually we spend our time together. However, shopping or doing yoga is not my husband's top hobby, so hanging out with girl friends or others interested in those hobbies during those times is important (also for him). Similarly, my husband has a passion for extreme sports and while that’s not really my cup of tea, I encourage him to do this hobby with his buddies.
Friends can act as a great moral support, as a counselor, someone to enjoy extracurricular activities with, someone to learn from, a connection to new opportunities, and another member to your family. Treat your friends like family and they will certainly be an important part of your life.
Challenge: Call or e-mail a friend and let them know how much they mean to you. You can tell them directly or show them how much you appreciate them by doing something special with them or for them. Go do it today or this upcoming weekend!