True friends are a business must

As a prank, a student stuck a paper on a classmate's back that read, "I'm stupid." He told all his friends not to tell the student, and they spent the day laughing quietly behind his back.

During math class, the teacher wrote a tough problem on the chalkboard and asked someone to solve it. The boy with the sticker was the only one who volunteered. He came up and solved the problem easily while the rest of the class laughed at him.

The teacher quietly removed the paper from his back and threw it away. Then she said to the class, "I'm going to tell you two things. First, throughout your life, people are going to put labels on you. If this student had known about the label you put on him, he wouldn't have come up here and showed us the answer. That means you should learn to ignore the labels other people put on you.

"Second, because no one told this student about the sticker, remember that it is not the number of people you know that is important. It's how many loyal friends who have your back that matters."

This story from Bits & Pieces demonstrates how loyal friends hold an irreplaceable position in one's life, acting as the bedrock upon which we can anchor ourselves during both triumphant and turbulent times. Their importance to me, and indeed to anyone fortunate enough to have them, transcends the mere companionship they offer.

First, loyal friends provide a safe space where one can be truly oneself, without fear of judgment or rejection. Strong friendships foster a deep sense of belonging and acceptance, which are fundamental human needs. In a world that often demands conformity, having a haven where one can express their true thoughts and feelings is a source of great comfort and strength.

Second, loyal friends are a source of unwavering support. Life is unpredictable, filled with challenges and setbacks alongside its joys and triumphs. During those inevitable periods of difficulty, loyal friends stand by you, offering encouragement, assistance and a listening ear. This support can make the difference between succumbing to adversity and overcoming it. They celebrate your successes without envy and share your burdens without hesitation.

Moreover, loyal friends offer honest feedback and guidance. They have the courage to hold up a mirror to our actions and decisions, helping us to see ourselves clearly. While it's comforting to have cheerleaders, it's transformative to have friends who challenge us and push us toward becoming the best versions of ourselves.

Finally, loyal friends contribute to our overall well-being and happiness. Numerous studies have shown that strong, supportive friendships are linked to lower levels of stress, better mental health and a longer life. The joy and laughter shared with friends enrich our lives, making the good times better and the hard times bearable.

In essence, loyal friends are the family we choose for ourselves. They are our confidants, cheerleaders, counselors and co-conspirators. They enrich our lives in countless ways, making the journey through life more enjoyable and meaningful.

In a professional setting, having someone's back during challenging times is not just an act of kindness but a strategic imperative that fosters a supportive and resilient work environment. This approach builds trust, encourages open communication and enhances team cohesion, which are critical components for success, especially when navigating difficult situations.

When team members know they have support, they are more likely to take calculated risks and innovate, knowing that their colleagues have their back. This safety net encourages experimentation and learning, which is vital for growth and adaptation in today's fast-paced business world.

Supporting each other during challenges strengthens relationships within the team. It transforms the workplace from a collection of individuals working side by side into a united front that can effectively tackle any obstacle. 

Having someone's back promotes a culture of mentorship and learning. More experienced team members can guide and support newer or less experienced colleagues, helping them navigate through challenges more effectively. This enhances the overall competency and capability of the team as well.

From a leadership perspective, showing support during challenging times sets a powerful example. It demonstrates empathy, resilience and commitment to the team's well-being, qualities that inspire respect and loyalty. Leaders who practice this create an environment where employees feel valued and motivated, leading to higher job satisfaction and retention rates.

Mackay's Moral: The currency of real networking is not greed but generosity, and loyal friends are the richest dividends.

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Harvey Mackay is the author of the New York Times bestseller "Swim With the Sharks Without Being Eaten Alive." He can be reached through his website, www.harveymackay.com, by emailing harvey@mackay.com or by writing him at MackayMitchell Envelope Co., 2100 Elm St. SE, Minneapolis, MN 55414.