Listen to the Pgh Dreamer’s Pod: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/meghan-greenwood/episodes/Diversify-Your-Friend-Group-e2c62k5

During my job search this past year, I met up with a friend who I would typically go to for all things dance. She has been a staple in the artistic world, and while I knew she was brilliant, I hadn’t capitalized on her insight until now. One of her major pieces of advice, outside of direct career guidance, was to consider different input from different friends. And this applied to all things life, not just jobs.

This really made me think. While I am a classic Input theme within the Gallup Strengths Finder, aka I collect connections, aka I enjoy a wide variety of friends, I didn’t think to gain knowledge from them outside of their typical lane. For example, another friend is always great for bouncing ideas regarding parenting. But then I realized she is also helping carve out a new business – I could certainly ask her for advice on strategy and engagement. And yet another connection, someone who I previously looked up to but thought was out of my league, literally referred to me as her friend, and immediately, bells were going off. This person is such a warm-hearted spirit, someone I need more of in my life. Someone that could make me think and help me be more myself. Of course, she is my friend!

Overall, these interactions have taught me the importance of diversifying your friend group. While you may have a bestie, it’s always good to have more perspectives when you need to talk. And if there are specific topics on your mind, who better than to lean on a friend with expertise in that area to gain knowledge. Think of someone in your life that you admire and never hold back asking for their thoughts. Continue building out your connections my friends.