According to Jim Rohn, you are the average of the five people closest to you, and if that thought scares you a little, then it may be time to clean up your inner circle. Who are the important people in your life and how do they add value to your experience? Is there someone you are allowing to hang around who don’t contribute to your well-being in a meaningful way?

We’ve all had a difficult friend along the way and the truth is, we have been that difficult friend ourselves at times. Women, especially, place such emphasis on their female bonds, we offer each other emotional support and a feeling of belonging. These relationships can be intense and time-consuming and we generally have very high expectations, so it can be devastating when something goes wrong.

Close friendships are an integral part of our lives and this is true for women of all ages. Friends make life happier and more meaningful and trust, truthfulness and honesty are the most precious qualities of any friendship. When these are violated, it might be a good idea to take stock of the situation and regroup. Life is truly too short to waste valuable time on situations and people who no longer serve you.