One of my friends spends a lot of time wondering if he’s making the most of his existence; he’s recently made a career change, which incorporates his love of writing while also making a social impact.
Another friend is applying for a summer course, Future of Learning under the Harvard Graduate School of Education; and another freelances, currently for a charity, ‘Work is really intense; everything has to be done yesterday,’ he recently said. ‘I’m working for that mad, panic-driven coke-fueled PR woman!’
I have friends who are full-time mums to demanding kids; and others who juggle full-time work with motherhood. In short, my friends inspire me and enrich my life, and catching up with them makes me realise how important it is to have diverse friends who give you a broad perspective on life.
These are the kinds of people whom I think everyone should surround themselves with…
- The Geeky Friend
Geeks are actually our coolest friends; they’re smart, interested and will ensure you get the most out of 21st century life. And they’re so passionate about their field that you can’t help being enthused by association. Amongst many other things, my techy friend has introduced me to Festival of the Spoken Nerd (super smart, hilarious and often downright weird – what’s not to love?); Seth Godwin’s daily dose of inspiration (I subscribe to his blog); and prepared me to give a (knockout) speech. - The Up-For-Anything Friend
A friend who isn’t just reliable, but also up for doing stuff that pushes you out of your comfort zone is always a joy to have around. A flexible friend is the one you want to take on holiday; s/he’ll be open to an itinerary but happy to tear it up when adventure beckons/holiday gaffes begin. I’ve gatecrashed a wedding in Barcelona, run out of money in NYC and found myself being stripped on the bar at Hogs & Heifers while my Up-For-Anything Friend lay, passed out, in our waiting car. - The Brutally Honest Friend
Whether you have a crisis on your hands or just need help with your wardrobe, your (often painfully) honest friend is your go-to. She’s not afraid of saying it like it is because she truly has your best interests at heart. I’m grateful for the friend who said, ‘That’s enough talking about him,’ and kept me distracted from thinking about the ex with some thoughtful evenings in and very fun nights out. - The Mentor
‘There are two types of people: balcony, who build you up; and basement, who bring you down,’ my friend Luisa once said. ‘Balcony’ friends inspire us to be better people. Monique is one of those friends: she is hugely knowledgeable on a variety of subjects; charms the pants off everyone (I’ve witnessed a waiter literally falling over himself for her); and is a few steps ahead of me in life. What’s more, she recently messaged me to say I energise her so I guess that the most supportive relationships are reciprocal. - The Eccentric Friend
I was considering the importance of having friends from different age groups, cultures and lifestyles to allow you to explore different world view points and values, but these friend ‘types’ could venture into tokenism territory. And it’s arguably more important to simply have an oddball friend. If you ask my mum what she does [for a living] she’ll likely respond with, ‘I’m a full-time lunatic.’ My mum has been there to offer support and advice (usually through tarot readings) for a number of friends, who generally describe her as a legend.
