Online Reporter
James Tichaendepi
Youth Interactive Writer
THE journey through high school is full of events, activities, and the creation of memories. From the first day of Form One orientation to the day you write your last Combined Science examination and say goodbye to the school, the teachers and the many friends you have made over time, high school is a remarkable experience. A popular quote says, “Show me who your friends are, and I will tell you who you are.”
The choice of friends in high school depends on the individual, and it changes with maturity as the years go by. As we enter high school, we all make new friends, and as days turn into weeks, we often find ourselves leaving some behind and making new ones along the way.
The best friends we can have in high school are those who share similar goals and visions with us. If you are a Form Two learner and your goal is to achieve distinctions at the end of the term, then spend time with those who consistently perform well. Human nature works that way—you often become like the people you associate with. If you spend your time with notorious and mischievous backbenchers who abscond lessons, you are likely to develop similar habits and character traits. Good friends support you and help you with your academic work. They offer constructive criticism and never mock you. The good friendships formed in high school should be maintained for life because they can create valuable connections in the future.
Avoid friendships with people who repeatedly betray your trust. You may know that you are constantly being let down, yet you choose to remain in such friendships. For example, you may spend the whole school day with a friend, and at the end of the day they tell you to simply sleep or watch a movie. You follow their advice, only to discover later that they were studying and making up for the free periods they wasted with you during the day. They tell you the same thing during the weekend, and once again you follow their suggestion. Such behaviour reflects a lack of genuine friendship.
Within your circle of friends, you should still have time for yourself. Use some of your free periods to study independently or read a motivational book in a quiet space. By doing so, you will be building a brighter future because you understand how to balance your social life with personal growth. This personal time can be used for self-reflection, meditation, or any meaningful activity that helps you develop as an individual. The important thing is to have time when you are doing something productive on your own.
High school requires you to surround yourself with “energy-drink” type people—friends who motivate and inspire you to do your work, read your books, and pursue your goals. At the same time, you should enjoy your high school years, make good memories, and have fun with your friends. Choose friends who encourage you to attend school events and activities so that you can learn, grow, create lasting memories, and enjoy your journey through high school.
As Oprah Winfrey once said, “Surround yourself with only people who are going to lift you higher.”
