Why You Need Friendships More Than Connections In Today’s World

If you are looking to scale any professional ladder, networking is inevitable. Over the years, it has become an indispensable tool for growth in any business setting. Networking means communicating with people for mutually beneficial purposes. This is the process of creating a symbiotic rapport with businesses, people, or prospective clients. Gains associated with networking are:

1. It solidifies business connections.
2. It makes for new and innovative ideas. 
3. It helps in elevating your business or career profile.
4. It builds confidence within you.
5. It is essential in achieving business or career goals. 

The emphasis on networking over making real friends has increased in present times. Since, building meaningful business relationships is a perk of networking or having connections. Do not misunderstand me! There is nothing wrong with interacting with people or prospective clients for mutual gains. As a matter of fact, it is unavoidable if you intend to reach the apex of your career or strike the best deals. However, the problem lies in the misconception that networking or connections can substitute for building actual friendships. Hence, there is disregard when it comes to consciously cultivating friendships. 

Even though networking brings a lot to the table, it is not safe to base the essence of relationships solely on what you can get or benefit from the transactions. It is important to nurture relationships where there is trust, genuine interests, vulnerability, and can stand the test of time. It is about creating social connections that enrich your life, celebrate the good times, provide support during the bad times, and enhance your overall wellbeing. Therefore, as much as it is important to utilize networking as a tool for achieving results in your business or career endeavors, it is also crucial to understand what it is and seek for equanimity as it relates to business connections and developing meaningful affinities that affect your life positively. 

With that said, let us have a look at why friendships are invaluable:

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1. Friendships boost health: Research shows that social isolation and loneliness are responsible for several diseases. It also stresses the importance of having an affinity with like-minded people as it helps with health issues such as depression, stroke, and diabetes. Hence, it is good to crave healthy friendships. 
2. They help with stress and anxiety: A productive way to unwind after a hectic day at work is by talking or texting with friends. They help with releasing stress and tension as it relates to work. Ways in which this can happen includes funny remarks, teasing, and showing support. However, this cannot happen with your connections or networking as it is strictly business.  
3. They enhance personal growth and development: True friends have your best interests at heart. It is not a case of what they can get. It is about loving unconditionally and wanting the best for you. This means that they give their time, push you to be the best, and encourage you to make lifestyle changes that can enhance your life. In other words, friendships are spaces for personal growth and development. 

As we draw the curtains, an established fact is that networking is imperative in achieving goals. But when it comes to creating loving and lasting relationships, it is necessary to put our best foot forward.