Fostering Friendships Amid Work

As a business owner, I’m no stranger to a packed schedule. Between meetings, deadlines, and the million little things that pop up daily, finding time for friends often feels like a luxury. But as we step into the New Year, strengthening friendships is at the top of my resolutions list—and here’s why.

Research shows that friendships aren’t just a feel-good part of life; they’re a critical factor in happiness, health, and even longevity. A study cited by Inc. highlights that people with strong social connections live longer and report higher levels of life satisfaction. Friends are our secret to thriving—not just surviving—and no one has ever said from their deathbed, “I wish I’d spent less time with the people I love.”

For me, it’s all about intentionality. I’ve learned that nurturing relationships doesn’t mean carving out huge chunks of time—it’s about making the little moments count. A quick coffee, a text to check in, or even a shared podcast link can go a long way. Some of my favorite memories last year were casual hikes or brainstorming sessions that turned into hangouts. 

But let’s be honest: balancing friendships and work takes effort. I’m committing to putting friend dates on my calendar, just like meetings. I wouldn’t cancel on a client, so why cancel on the people who bring joy and grounding to my life?

This year, I’m focusing on building friendships that last. How about you? Text someone today to plan your next hangout—it could be the best decision you make this week.