Building a Circle of Support: The Power of Encouraging Friendships
- Rose Hedgemond

- Sep 11
- 2 min read
They say you become like the five people you spend the most time with. If that’s true, then choosing your circle isn’t just about friendships—it’s about your future.
Every girl deserves to be surrounded by people who believe in her dreams, celebrate her wins, and gently challenge her to grow. A true circle of support is one where encouragement is natural, kindness is consistent, and honesty is offered in love.
What Positive Friendships Look Like
They cheer for you. A real friend says, “I’m proud of you,” or “That’s amazing—tell me more.”
They listen with care. They don’t just wait to talk; they want to understand.
They hold you accountable. They encourage you to show up, even when it’s hard.
They respect your boundaries. No pressure, no judgment—just acceptance.
Here are some simple phrases you can use to build up your friends today:
“You inspire me.”
“I believe in you.”
“How can I support you right now?”
“Thank you for always being there.”

The Hidden Cost of Negative Circles
But just as a positive circle can lift you up, a negative one can quietly pull you down. Spending too much time with people who gossip, discourage, or dismiss your goals can take you farther from your dreams than you realize.
Negative circles can:
Drain your energy and confidence.
Distract you from your goals.
Normalize unhealthy habits or risky behavior.
Keep you stuck in cycles of comparison or doubt.
It doesn’t mean you stop caring about people who struggle—but it does mean being honest about whether their influence is building you up or breaking you down.
Why Mentorship Alone Isn’t Enough
Even with the best mentors, teachers, or coaches pouring into your life, growth slows down if your everyday circle works against you. No matter how much mentoring or self-improvement you do, there comes a moment of decision:
👉 Who am I letting into my inner circle? Are they building me—or keeping me from my future success?
Choosing Wisely
Your circle won’t be perfect, but it should be purposeful. Surround yourself with people who:
Celebrate your uniqueness.
Challenge you to grow.
Respect your values and boundaries.
Walk with you toward a brighter future.
Remember: protecting your peace isn’t selfish. It’s necessary. The people you spend time with today shape the person you will become tomorrow.
Thought to Carry with You: The right circle doesn’t just support your dreams—it protects them. Choose wisely, and you’ll discover that your future is closer than you think.
Share your thoughts:
We’d love to hear from you! Share your thoughts in the comments—did this article resonate with you? Have you noticed how your peers can influence one another, either in positive or negative ways?




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