When I get into work mode, focused on my to-do list, the days start to run together.

Do you know that feeling? When you’ve been so busy that you barely have time to do basic things like eating and sleeping?

It’s then that I feel thankful for good friends. I may not hang out with them during those busy stretches, but I know we’ll pick up right where we left off the next time we see each other.
We can tell each other anything. No matter how much time has passed, it’s like we just talked yesterday.

I can’t even describe how crucial this is to my mental health. It’s a fact: we are healthier when we have social connections.

Some of my friends are old – not physically, but I’ve known them for years. Some are newer; we connected through shared interests like cooking, crafts or exercising.

They’re all different, but they have some important things in common. I surround myself with people who have these core traits:

• Honesty. An honest friend won’t always tell you what you want to hear. They’ll tell you what you need to hear. That shows their best intentions. They care about your overall well-being.
• No need for drama. They’re not easily offended.
• Secure in themselves. They don’t need to get together all the time and they don’t get ticked off if we don’t see each other for a while.
• They don’t judge. I can be my true self with them and know they’ll still love me, regardless.
• Positive outlook on life. The best thing you can do when you pick a friend is choose a positive person. Better yet, you be that happy, positive person! Positive people give you a bump of energy when you see them.

Truth: your vibe attracts your tribe. Be the kind of friend you would like to have, and you’ll make those connections.

Lead a healthier, happier life! Check out our lineup of classes and wellness events.

Grab a friend and hit the spa, or the fitness center (or both)! Learn more about Edward-Elmhurst Health & Fitness.