Why it’s okay to have a small friendship group

Movies, TV and Instagram can make it seem like everyone you know has a massive group of friends that they’re always going to gigs or pool parties with. We chatted to Angel, a 21-year-old Psychology student from Sydney, about why she loves having a small, close group of friends.

I appreciate the friends I have

I don’t have a huge group of friends. I’ve got a lot of distant friends who I hardly ever talk to and only catch up with once in a blue moon, plus two really close friends. Both those friends have had a huge influence on my life and shaped the person I am today, and I appreciate them both so much.

All I need are quality best friends

I know that a lot of people love to have heaps of friends. I used to be a bit like that, but as my friends and I got older we grew into different people and life got a bit too busy. I try not to focus on the friends I don’t have; instead, I tell myself that all I need are quality best friends – and I’ve got those.

Life isn’t always about partying, going out in big groups and doing crazy things. I mean, if that’s what genuinely makes you happy, that’s great! But don’t just do it to try and fit in with someone else. It’s your life, so looking after yourself and focusing on reaching your potential should be your number one priority.

When not having a huge friend group gets me a bit down...

Every now and then, I’ll get a bit upset about not having a huge crew of friends to see every weekend. Social media can sometimes make you feel like you’re missing out on something if you don’t have a raging social life. I find keeping my mind busy, with work or study, is a great way to stop those thoughts from creeping in and taking over. That’s what works for me, but just find something that interests you.

I’m working on myself and grateful for what I have

Right now, I’m working on making myself a better person, and that’s what’s most important to me. Because that’s my focus, I don’t have a lot of time for a massive social life at the moment, but I know it won’t always be like that. I have so much to look forward to in the future, and I’m still so young. Once I have my career on track, and a home, I’ll have way more time to spend with my friends.

The older I get, the more I realise that I don’t need to depend on other people to make me happy. I think the main thing is, I’m grateful for everything I have. I like to make an effort to remember that, rather than focusing on the things I don’t have.