Dear people who are convinced they’re too independent to have a best friend,

I’m not saying there’s anything wrong with enjoying your own company, but it’s obvious when that saying is being used as an excuse. It may seem impossible to make a genuine friend, but it isn’t exactly easy either when you’re constantly telling yourself no one’s worthy of your time. You’re not a celebrity – you can have a nice conversation with a stranger and reply to your peers’ messages.

You claim you’re protecting your peace because those friends are just distracting from what really matters, so you wouldn’t want to waste your time. But maybe distractions are exactly what you need.

Not every friendship in life is an extraordinary experience, but each one can leave you with valuable memories or important lessons that help you grow. Having friends to share your life with helps reduce stress and blood pressure, provides emotional stability and protects you against mental health.

My best friend has provided a safe space for me to confide in; she makes everything easier to deal with. I believed that friendships weren’t needed nor valuable, but I have come to accept that I was wrong. Everyone needs a person to share moments with, someone who allows them to let out their emotions without having to be suffocated by them.

I’m sure you don’t want to feel a sense of loneliness after a huge accomplishment, having no one to turn to during your toughest times, or finding no comfort when you need it most. Sharing moments, emotions and memories with another person doesn’t make you weak or dependent on them. Don’t choose to struggle alone, because everything’s lighter when shared.

Not every friendship encountered will last a lifetime, nor will it always be a good one, but there is a chance it will be. Put yourself out there and speak to new people even if you’re afraid to do so, because you may have not met the most important people in your life yet.

Sincerely,

Someone who used to be like you.