The Surprising Benefits of Having Fewer Friends
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The Value of Quality Over Quantity in Friendships
In our society, there's a prevalent belief that having numerous friends equates to a better life. However, I challenge this notion. While friendships are undeniably important, it's not about the quantity but the quality of those connections. Why is this perspective beneficial? Allow me to explain.
I embarked on my college journey in March 2022. At the outset, my entire class would congregate frequently, regardless of whether we had classes. We filled our days with laughter and camaraderie. Yet, as an introvert, I often found this constant interaction overwhelming. Eventually, as time passed, our group began to disperse. This shift allowed for deeper, more meaningful interactions with a smaller circle.
As I focused on my career aspirations, my time spent with friends dwindled, leading to a phase of isolation. However, as the weeks progressed, my bonds with a few hostel mates deepened. Although those friendships eventually transitioned when they graduated and relocated far away, our connection remains intact. We may not converse daily or meet frequently, yet we still share the same bond we cultivated during our time together.
This experience imparted a crucial lesson: having a handful of true friends is more rewarding than having many acquaintances. Friends are not merely companions for social activities; they become your family away from home. They are the ones who stand by you when others may not. Building such connections takes time, and with numerous friends, spreading your attention too thin can hinder this process.
While networking and knowing a variety of people is vital in today’s world, not everyone can become a true friend. It's important to forge connections with those who genuinely understand you and vice versa. True friends are often the first to share in life's significant moments, sometimes even before family. Therefore, choose your friends carefully, ensuring they evolve into your second family.
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