You Are the Company You Keep

March 28, 2016 by WestBridge

You are the company you keep. You’ve probably heard this theory before—but do you know how deep it goes? According to one school of thought, you are, essentially, a reflection of the five individuals with whom you spend the most time—so the people you choose to surround yourself with have a real bearing on your personality, your attitude, and even your state of mind.

This is important for everyone, not just those in recovery. Simply put, it means that you need to surround yourself with people who will encourage you, strengthen you, and push you to get better. You need to find a support system that consists of people who are positive and hopeful, because by doing so, you can stay positive and hopeful yourself.

As you seek to build a support system, it’s important to be strategic, and to really think about the qualities you are amassing. Here are some specific qualities to look for in your support system members:

People who listen well, and will refrain from trying to “fix you” all the time
People who encourage you to step outside your comfort zone and experience new things
People who are willing to give you real, “in the moment” feedback
People who do not make you feel judged or ashamed
People who do not support habits or tendencies that bring you down
People who are optimistic about your goals, not people who are naysayers or who are downcast
People who will allow you some solitude and quiet when you need it

The kinds of people in your support system can ultimately make or break your recovery. That’s why it’s smart to assemble this support system with care. Look for people who will help you, and whose best traits you can reflect in your own life.

What do you look for in a support system? Tell us on Facebook!