Have you ever hung up the phone after speaking with a friend feeling that your cup has been filled?
You know ... that feeling of being heard, being seen, being valued, being loved ... just for who you are?
I know you are smiling, nodding, and perhaps even thinking of your one or two 'go-to' people for this kind of impact.
When was the last time you connected?
I know that the demands of a busy lifestyle, perhaps as a new leader, a working Mom, or managing your side-hustle mean that making time for nurturing your friendships might feel like yet another thing you have to do ... and you just don't have time for anything more right now!
How do I know this?
Because I hear it all too often in my coaching practice. And it makes me sad.
It makes me sad because I know how uplifting it can be to spend time with friends. And because most of the people that I hear this from, really need just the kind of pick-me-up that friends can provide.
The paradox is that the effort you spend in nurturing your friendships by making time to connect, even as busy as you are, will provide you with an energy gain that will pay you back ten-fold in other areas of your work and life. (... and you already know this!)
But that's not all ... your leadership effectiveness will be boosted too!
Three ways spending time with friends boosts your leadership effectiveness
So what are you waiting for? Who are you going to call tomorrow for a catch-up?