From: "Beating the College Blues"
by Paul Grayson and Phil Meilman

Q: My friend and I used to spend all our free time together, but lately she's been hanging out with a new crowd and saying she needs more time to herself. How can I get her back?

A: Are you sure you've lost her? All friendships have ups and downs, periods of more or less involvement. Your friend's recent pulling away doesn't prove your friendship is disintegrating. (Coming soon)

Surround Yourself With Good People!
If your friends and acquaintances seem unmotivated and without direction…look out!

It is a well-known fact that our affiliations have a tremendous impact on our approach to life. Keep this in mind if you are unhappy with your progress through school and life.

This may be why parents can be critical from time to time of their kids' friends. They know how important friends can be and want the best for their kids. However, they won't ever know your friends as well as you do and might not be right.

You will need to decide what a "good friend" means to you! Good friends in life are very valuable. Set your standards high as the rewards and consequences can be significant. High energy, loyal and trustworthy friends will help you through difficult times. However, sometimes "friends" are really only acquaintances and you should know the difference.

You have a connection with friends and a desire to see them happy and well. Friends help and watch out for each other. They encourage things that are good for you and warn you about things that aren't good for you.

Acquaintances are people who you spend time with, but don't have that "connection" to. They don't have a vested stake in your life as a friend will. They may encourage you to do things that are fun and exciting for the entertainment value of the time they spend with you. This isn't always bad, but it can be. You will need to decide.