In our podcast episode about the biggest regrets people have at the end of their lives, I was particularly touched by point 4:
“I wish I had kept in touch with my friends more.”
But what does friendship really mean?
For me personally, it has become clearer than ever:
I don’t need a huge circle of friends, no 200 contacts who are ultimately just island acquaintances.
I need depth, authenticity and presence. People who show up when I really need them – and with whom I show up without hesitation.
I have seen many people go in my life – sometimes gradually, sometimes abruptly. And you know what? That’s perfectly fine.
A true friend is not the one who drinks with you. A true friend is the one who opens the door at 7 a.m. when your life is on fire.
I have learned:
If I lose energy, I leave. When I get energy, I stay. And that’s exactly how I measure every form of relationship today – both professionally and privately. We talk a lot about success, growth and performance. But in the end… it’s the small inner circle that counts. The circle that you are present for – and that is present for you.
Maybe it’s not the number of contacts we end up regretting.
Maybe it’s that we’ve kept the wrong ones too often and neglected the right ones.
Today I know:
Quality beats quantity. Always.
And maybe that can be your little reminder today.
Listen to the new episode:
And with Apple Podcasts: