5 Tips for a Happier, Healthier Social Network

Our friendships and social circles shape us more than we sometimes realise. Like sunshine for a garden, the people we spend time with can either help us grow or keep us stuck in the shade.

If you’re looking to refresh your social life and feel more energised, here are five practical tips to keep in mind.

1. CHOOSE YOUR FRIENDS CAREFULLY

The old saying, “you are the company you keep”, has more truth to it than we like to admit.

Surrounding yourself with people who encourage, uplift, and bring positivity into your life sets the tone for your own mindset. Choosing friends isn’t about being exclusive — it’s about protecting your energy. Ask yourself: does this person help me feel more alive, or do they drain the spark out of me?

2. SPEND MORE TIME WITH YOUR POSITIVE FRIENDS

We all have different types of mates — some who push us forward, and others who keep us sitting still.

Spending more time with upbeat, driven, or simply good-humoured friends naturally rubs off on you. For instance, if your weekends are usually spent with couch potatoes, you may find yourself adopting their slower habits. On the other hand, joining your more adventurous or optimistic friends can open doors to new experiences, laughter, and healthier routines.

3. JOIN CLUBS OR COMMUNITIES THAT INSPIRE YOU

One of the best ways to grow socially is to immerse yourself in groups whose values you admire.

Want to get fitter? Join a walking group. Keen to learn photography? Find a local camera club. When you surround yourself with people you’d like to emulate, their habits, attitudes, and energy often become contagious. And let’s be honest — shared enthusiasm makes conversations flow a whole lot easier.

4. DON’T ABSORB NEGATIVE BEHAVIOURS

It’s human nature to unconsciously mirror those around us — facial expressions, body language, even moods.

But if someone is constantly grumpy, pessimistic, or heavy with drama, you don’t have to let their emotional storm soak into you. The trick is awareness: recognise the pull, then gently resist it. Sometimes simply shifting your posture, breathing deeply, or redirecting the conversation can keep you from sliding into their emotional quicksand.

5. REMEMBER, SOCIAL INFLUENCE IS POWERFUL — AND MOSTLY GOOD

We’re social animals by design.

The influence of others can encourage us to learn new skills, adopt healthier habits, and feel a sense of belonging. The key is being aware of how much sway others have over us, and choosing wisely who we let into that inner circle. When you cultivate friendships and networks that fuel your growth, you’ll discover that being influenced is not something to fear, but a powerful tool for living a happier life.