Monday, February 10, 2020

Relationships Worth Having

As we begin to REWIRE and create or live our next acts, we need to recognize that we only have so much time, effort and energy.  That's why it is so important to review and prioritize our friendships and relationships so we can make the most of our lives.

First, be aware of the number of relationships you do or don’t have, BEFORE you retire. Often relationships are work centric.  When work ends what will happen to those relationships? What are the relationships you have with fellow employees, vendors, clients, customers, and industry associates? Are they really friends? Are they acquaintances or just part of your business network? Will they continue after you are no longer in the workplace? Do you want them to? If so you need to do some work to convert or Rewire those people into deeper friendships.

There are the friends you’ve had for a lifetime. Sometimes they don’t sustain the test of time.  As you look at them objectively, are they individuals you care about, or have they become toxic, or boring, or no longer aligned with your future.  Do they or will they care about your ideas, goals, interests or dreams?  

Perhaps it isn't a new trend but we are hearing from readers that they are de-selecting friendships.  It’s happening. Time is valuable and they say that they want their time to be fulfilling with people they enjoy and who sustain them.
You don’t want to be hasty, rude or mean. Sometimes hard decisions need to be made.  Don't forget to look in the mirror.  Are you someone others value and want to continue to have a relationship with?  To have a friend, you must be a friend.