Should you consider 'editing' your circle of friends?
Does your phone's contact list contain numbers of people you'd rather not speak with? Do you spend more time socializing with work colleagues or university peers than with your genuine friends? Do you accept social invitations out of a sense of obligation rather than authentic desire? If you answered yes to at least two of these, then maybe the moment has come to 'edit your friends'.
In today's world, individuals frequently allocate substantial time to socialising with work associates or university classmates. The consequence is insufficient time available for our true, intimate friends. Since schedules grow increasingly hectic, it grows critical to devote the scarce leisure moments we possess to those we genuinely wish to spend time with, those we treasure and who treasure us in return.
Which friends might you need to edit? Some years back, I came upon a publication about eliminating unnecessary items from your life. It suggested you evaluate each possession you own by asking: Does it serve a purpose? Do I genuinely value it? Am I content whenever I come across it? If the response to any of these is no, you should get rid of it. We might apply the same reasoning to our friendships.
What type of friends will you likely need to edit? It could be a longtime friend. Someone with whom you once shared considerable common ground, yet who, at your current meetings, gives you almost nothing to talk about. Or perhaps it's someone newer whom you connect with adequately, yet who consumes excessive amounts of your time. When such an individual next proposes meeting up, ask yourself, 'Would I truly enjoy this person's company?'—and if not, politely decline and give a reason. This practice will leave you with more occasions to see your true friends.
(Based on: New English File Intermediate, Student's Book)
