Have you ever noticed that after spending time with certain people, you feel energized, encouraged, and ready to take on the world? Then there are other relationships that leave you feeling drained, doubtful, or exhausted.
That's not your imagination. It's influence.
One of the greatest lessons I've learned is that our friendships don't just shape our social calendar - they shape our future.
Years ago, I was reading The Compound Effect by Darren Hardy. One statement stopped me in my tracks: the people you spend the most time with have a tremendous impact on the direction of your life. I realized I had a choice. I could continue investing in relationships that were holding me back, or I could intentionally surround myself with people who challenged me to become the best version of myself.
That realization led to one of the greatest blessings in my life: a group of extraordinary women we lovingly call the Superheroes.
For years, we've gathered regularly - not because life is perfect, but because we all need people who remind us who we are when we forget. We've celebrated promotions, comforted one another through loss, laughed until we cried, made ridiculous memories, and held each other accountable to becoming healthier, stronger, kinder, and braver.
Here's what I've learned: the right friendships don't ask you to stay small.
- They celebrate your wins without jealousy.
- They tell you the truth with love.
- They encourage you to take healthy risks.
- They remind you of your worth.
- They help you see possibilities you can't yet see for yourself.
In my work, I often talk about the five F Words that I love - Food, Fitness, Fashion, Fun, and Friendship. Friendship belongs on that list because it nourishes us just as much as healthy food and movement do.
Research continues to show that meaningful relationships contribute to longer lives, better mental health, greater resilience, and even improved physical health. We were never meant to do life alone.
So here's a little July Joy challenge for you.
Take a moment to think about the five people you spend the most time with.
- Do they encourage you?
- Do they inspire you?
- Do they celebrate your growth?
- Do you leave feeling lighter after spending time with them?
And just as importantly...
Are you that kind of friend for someone else?
Joy grows in community. Confidence grows in community. Courage grows in community.
If your circle isn't helping you grow, it may be time to lovingly expand it. Join a club. Volunteer. Attend a networking event. Invite someone to coffee. Smile first. Be curious. Be the person who creates the kind of friendships you're hoping to find.
Because your future is being shaped every day - not only by the choices you make, but by the people standing beside you while you make them.
Choose wisely.
Here's to a July filled with joy, meaningful conversations, and friendships that help you become the person you were created to be.
