Talk
You are at the center of your plan for the future, but other people can help you plan and encourage and support you as you take steps to put your plan into action. Think about people you know who are interested in you and care about you.
- Draw a circle with you in the middle.
- Then draw another circle around it. In this larger circle, write in the names of the people you know and trust the best - your intimate friends and family.
- Draw a larger circle around that circle. In the new circle, write the names of people that you see and deal with frequently - teachers, friends, neighbors and counselors, to name a few.
- Draw another larger circle around that circle. List people who are part of your life, but not as close to you, such as friends of your family, members of your church, and service providers.
Talk to these people about your hopes, interests and personality, either one at a time or in a group. If you do this as a group session, plan to have refreshments and ask someone else to serve as a facilitator. People coming to the first session only need to commit to come eat, listen and have some fun. After that first session, some people will be interested in continuing to work with you through future meetings or individually by providing ideas, assistance and support.
As a first step, ask them to help you identify your strengths and positive qualities. Use this information to develop your personal profile or résumé.
For more information about Circle of Friends, see Full Life Ahead.