Socrates' Wise Words On Friends

A powerful quote, a simple action, and a spark to ensure your continued progress—welcome to Wise Words Weekly!

🤔Every week, we disect, investigate, and unpack a wisdom-packed quote from a wise, successful, and inspirational person. We explore many different self-development topics such as your Personal Growth, Mindset, Well-Being, Relationships, Leadership, and Gratitude. The Wise Words Weekly newsletter is designed to spark your continued progress, one small step at a time. 📈 None of this content should be construed as any type of investment or other professional advice. If you like quotes as much as we do, you may enjoy our Wise Words YouTube channel, too. Click here to check it out.

This week, we’re diving into Relationships.

🔥Quote of the Week:

"There is no possession more valuable than a good and faithful friend." - Socrates

🤔Reflection:

In a world that often prioritizes achievements, wealth, or status, this ancient wisdom reminds us that the bonds we forge with others are among life’s greatest treasures. A good friend is not just someone who shares your laughter or listens to your stories, they’re the ones who stand by you through storms, challenge you to grow, and remind you of who you are when you lose your way. The ones you can depend on in the toughest of times.

Reflecting on this, consider the friends in your life: Who lifts you up? Who sees you for you, flaws and all, and loves you anyway? Equally important, ask yourself: How are you showing up as a friend? Being a faithful friend means offering loyalty, empathy, and honesty, even when it’s hard. To find such friends, start by being one. Seek out those who share your values, who inspire you, and who aren’t afraid to have the tough conversations that lead to growth.

Friendship isn’t about quantity; it’s about quality. High quality. Finding great friends requires intention. Put yourself in spaces where authentic connections thrive, like community volunteer groups, classes, or shared hobbies, where conversations go beyond small talk. It’s also about vulnerability: sharing your true self, even when it feels risky, invites others to do the same. Think about a time when a friend’s support changed your perspective or gave you courage. Now, imagine the ripple effect of being that kind of friend to someone else. This week, take a moment to appreciate the friends who make your life richer and consider how you can deepen those connections or open the door to new ones.

🏆Why This Can Be Your Superpower

A good and faithful friend is like a mirror for your soul and a catalyst for your potential. Having such friends gives you an unshakable foundation, a network of trust that allows you to take risks, face challenges, and pursue your dreams with confidence. They’re the ones who celebrate your wins without envy and gently call you out when you’re off track. This superpower lies not just in having these friends but in being one. When you show up with authenticity and loyalty, you create a cycle of mutual support that amplifies everyone’s strength. Imagine navigating life’s uncertainties with a circle of people who believe in you and hold you accountable, it’s like having a personal board of advisors who genuinely care. It’s very prevalent in professions that have a high risk of death. Combat, fire fighting, law enforcement, etc. When absolutely everything is on the line, things change quickly. It’s a mindset most aren’t accustomed to.

Being a great friend also sharpens your emotional intelligence, teaching you to listen deeply, communicate honestly, and resolve conflicts with grace. These skills spill over into every area of life, from work to family to personal growth. To find great friends, seek out those who share your curiosity and values, whether through shared passions, volunteering, or meaningful conversations at local events. The effort to build and maintain these bonds—through regular check-ins, shared experiences, or simply being present—pays off in a life filled with connection and resilience. Your ability to be a good and faithful friend can transform not just your life but the lives of those around you, inspiring them, and, creating a legacy of trust and care.

🔬The Science Behind It

Research underscores the profound impact of friendship on our well-being. Studies from Harvard’s 85-year-long Study of Adult Development reveal that strong relationships are the single biggest predictor of happiness and health, outranking wealth or career success. Close friendships reduce stress, lower cortisol levels, and even boost longevity—people with strong social bonds are 50% more likely to live longer than those with weaker connections. The brain thrives on these relationships: oxytocin, the "bonding hormone," surges during meaningful interactions, fostering trust and reducing anxiety. Conversely, loneliness can be as harmful as smoking 15 cigarettes a day, according to a 2015 meta-analysis.

Being a great friend also rewires your brain for empathy and resilience. Neuroscientists have found that practicing active listening—truly hearing and understanding another person—activates the prefrontal cortex, strengthening emotional regulation and problem-solving. To find great friends, science suggests seeking environments that foster repeated, positive interactions, like group activities or shared goals, which build trust over time.

For example, a 2020 study in Social Psychological and Personality Science found that people who engage in regular, meaningful conversations—beyond superficial chats—report higher life satisfaction. By prioritizing quality time and vulnerability, you create a feedback loop of mutual support that benefits both your mental and physical health.

🧬Stories That Bring It to Life

Consider the story of Ernest Shackleton, the Antarctic explorer whose 1914 expedition became a legendary tale of survival. When his ship, the Endurance, was trapped and crushed by ice, Shackleton’s leadership and unwavering loyalty to his crew—his "friends" in the truest sense—kept them alive through unimaginable hardship. He treated each member with respect, shared their burdens, and fostered a sense of camaraderie that sustained them for months in brutal conditions. Their bond, built on trust and mutual sacrifice, ensured they all survived. Shackleton’s story shows that being a faithful friend means showing up consistently, even when the stakes are high.

Or, take the modern example of Ava DuVernay, the filmmaker behind Selma and When They See Us. Early in her career, DuVernay leaned on a tight-knit group of friends, including fellow creatives like Issa Rae, who supported each other’s dreams in an industry that often felt inaccessible. They shared resources, offered honest feedback, and celebrated each other’s successes, creating a network that propelled them all forward. DuVernay has spoken about how these friendships gave her the courage to take creative risks. To find such friends, she sought out communities of like-minded artists, showing up authentically and offering support without expecting immediate returns—a model we can all emulate.

Personally, I retired from a 30+ year career in law enforcement. My closest friends are ones I have shared very stressful and dangerous times with. Also, I have been an active member and volunteer of the Fraternal Order of Eagles for many years. I have found very close friends through that experience as well.

🏃‍♂️How to Start Today

Building and being a great friend starts with small, intentional steps. First, identify one person in your life you’d like to deepen your connection with or someone new you’d like to know better. Reach out today—send a thoughtful message, invite them for coffee, or share something personal to spark a deeper conversation. Don't always wait to hear from someone. Be proactive in your friendships.

To find great friends, explore spaces aligned with your passions, like a book club, fitness class, or volunteer group, where shared interests naturally foster connection. Be curious—ask questions that go beyond surface-level chatter, like “What’s something you’re really excited about right now?” or “What’s been challenging for you lately?”

To be a great friend, practice active listening: put away distractions, reflect back what you hear, and show empathy without jumping to solutions. Make a habit of checking in regularly, even with a quick text or call, to show you care. Vulnerability is key—share your fears or dreams to invite reciprocity. Finally, be reliable: follow through on promises, show up when it matters, and offer support without keeping score. These actions build trust, the foundation of any lasting friendship. Start with one meaningful interaction today, and watch how it grows.

🎇A Challenge to Spark Change

This week, commit to one act of friendship that stretches you. Reach out to someone you haven’t connected with in a while—maybe a friend who’s drifted or someone you admire but haven’t gotten to know. Write them a heartfelt note or call them to share a memory or ask about their life. If you’re looking for new friends, attend one event or join one group that aligns with your interests, and initiate a conversation with someone new. Be bold: share something personal to break the ice. As a friend, challenge yourself to listen without interrupting or offer support without being asked. Track how these actions make you and others feel, and reflect on how they deepen your connections by the week’s end.

📖 📙A Great Book To Read On This Topic":

For a fresh perspective on friendship, dive into The Art of Showing Up by Rachel Wilkerson Miller (2020). This insightful guide explores how to be a better friend to others and yourself, offering practical advice on setting boundaries, listening well, and nurturing meaningful relationships. Miller emphasizes the importance of showing up consistently—through small gestures and big moments—and provides tools for building authentic connections in a busy world. Whether you’re seeking new friends or strengthening existing bonds, this book is a roadmap to creating the kind of friendships Socrates valued. Pick it up to discover how small changes in how you show up can transform your relationships.

If you don’t have the time to read a book, try listening to it on Audible.

🗣️Let’s Connect:

What’s something new you’re working on? Share it on 𝕏! @WiseWordsIQ

I’d love to hear your story and cheer you on!

🤔What’s Next?

Next week, expect another dose of wisdom (maybe we will touch on Leadership or Gratitude?) to keep your momentum going. Stay tuned for exclusive insights you won’t find on my X feed!

Here’s to your constant progress!

Your friend,

Grant

Find me on 𝕏: @WiseWordsIQ

P.S. Want to dive deeper into learning? Check out Mindset by Carol Dweck—a game-changer for growth!

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