They say you’re the average of the five people you spend the most time with.
That’s probably a bit simplistic, but there’s no denying that the company we keep has a massive impact on our mood, outlook, and overall happiness. If you’re looking to be a bit more positive and upbeat in your daily life, here are some types of people you might want to hang out with more often.
1. The friend who always sees the bright side of things lifts your spirits.
We all know that person who can find a silver lining in any situation. Their optimism is infectious, and spending time with them can help shift your perspective when life gets tough. These people don’t ignore problems, but they have a knack for focusing on solutions and possibilities rather than dwelling on what’s gone wrong.
2. The mate who makes you laugh until your sides hurt is a mood-booster.
Laughter truly is the best medicine, as they say. That friend who can crack you up with their hilarious quips or silly antics is worth their weight in gold. Whether you’re sharing inside jokes or giggling over a funny video, spending time with someone who tickles your funny bone can instantly improve your mood and reduce stress.
3. The adventurous pal who pushes you out of your comfort zone helps you grow.
While comfort is nice, growth and excitement require a willingness to get uncomfortable. That friend who’s always up for trying new things — whether it’s a quirky restaurant, an unusual hobby, or a spontaneous road trip — can help you expand your horizons. These experiences often lead to personal growth and create lasting memories.
4. The empathetic listener who truly hears you provides emotional support.
Sometimes, we just need someone to listen without trying to fix everything. A friend who can sit with you in your feelings, validate your experiences, and offer a supportive ear can be incredibly comforting. These people help you feel understood and less alone in your struggles.
5. The goal-oriented buddy who cheers on your dreams keeps you motivated.
Having someone in your corner who believes in your potential can be incredibly motivating. This type of friend encourages you to pursue your goals, celebrates your wins (no matter how small), and helps you brainstorm when you hit roadblocks. Their enthusiasm for your success can reignite your own passion when you’re feeling stuck.
6. The calm and level-headed friend brings peace to your life.
In a world that often feels chaotic, having a friend who exudes calmness can be a real blessing. These people help you keep things in perspective, offer rational advice when you’re feeling overwhelmed, and remind you to take a deep breath. Their presence alone can help lower your stress levels.
7. The creative soul who inspires you sparks your imagination.
Spending time with creative people can ignite your own creativity. Whether they’re artists, musicians, writers, or just have a unique way of looking at the world, these friends can inspire you to tap into your own creative side. This can lead to new hobbies, fresh perspectives, and a more colourful life overall.
8. The brutally honest friend who keeps it real helps you stay grounded.
While tact is important, having someone who’s not afraid to tell you the truth (even when it’s not what you want to hear) can be invaluable. These friends help keep you accountable, challenge you when needed, and prevent you from deceiving yourself. Their honesty, delivered with love, can lead to important personal insights and growth.
9. The knowledge-hungry pal who’s always learning stimulates your mind.
Curiosity is contagious. Spending time with someone who’s always eager to learn new things can inspire your own intellectual growth. Whether they’re sharing interesting facts, recommending books, or engaging you in thought-provoking discussions, these friends keep your mind active and engaged.
10. The friend who’s genuinely interested in your life makes you feel valued.
There’s something special about a friend who remembers the little details of your life and genuinely cares about what’s going on with you. They ask follow-up questions about that work project you mentioned last week or remember your mum’s birthday. This kind of attentiveness makes you feel seen and appreciated.
11. The outdoorsy type who gets you into nature refreshes your spirit.
Spending time in nature has been proven to boost mood and reduce stress. A friend who encourages you to get outside — whether for a hike, a picnic in the park, or just a quick walk around the block — can help you reap these benefits. Plus, outdoor activities often lead to great conversations and shared experiences.
12. The foodie friend who introduces you to new flavours adds spice to life.
Food is one of life’s great pleasures, and sharing meals with people can be a deeply bonding experience. A friend who’s always eager to try new restaurants or experiment with cooking different cuisines can introduce you to new flavours and culinary adventures. These shared experiences often come with lots of laughter and good conversation.
13. The mindful friend who encourages self-reflection helps you stay centred.
In our fast-paced world, having a friend who reminds you to slow down and check in with yourself can be incredibly valuable. Whether they practice meditation, journaling, or just have a knack for asking thought-provoking questions, these friends can help you stay connected to your inner self and values.
14. The friend who’s comfortable with silence allows for genuine connection.
Source: Unsplash There’s beauty in being able to sit comfortably in silence with someone. A friend who doesn’t feel the need to fill every moment with chatter allows for deeper, more authentic connection. These moments of shared quiet can be incredibly peaceful and allow for a level of comfort that’s truly special.
