Love Letter #6 ~ My Six Pack

Dear Self,

Today I am thinking about how grateful I am to have a six pack. It takes time to engage with my six pack, but I’m glad I take those moments to do so. While some people favor beer, energy, or soft drinks, my favorite six pack is my friends.

Many years ago, a colleague decided to introduce me to the concept of having a six pack. In short, the goal is to curate six people with different abilities whom I can call when needed. For example, if I want laughter, I call the person that can always make me laugh. If I require advice, I call the person who is a great listener and offers thoughtful counsel, and so on. Although I could accumulate as many members as I can handle, six is the core number.

As my needs shift, so do the members of my six pack. For instance, if my entrepreneurial venture requires someone to help me overcome obstacles, I will cultivate someone to fill the role as my business advisor. On the other hand, when I am no longer seeking career advancement as a corporate employee, I do not need a mentor. So, the mentor-mentee relationship will eventually dissipate because the role of mentor is no longer needed.

Fast forward to today. In addition to my entrepreneurial buddy, I have a friend that makes me laugh. I have another I call for creative input, a pal who is a great companion for adventure, one I can call to mellow me out following a stressful day, and a sidekick who always has her bags packed when I want to travel. Each member of my six pack is supportive, loyal, and trustworthy. Each fills a role that is an integral part of keeping me mentally, spiritually, and physically happy.

No matter what challenges I face, I feel confident I can be and do my best knowing I have someone in my six pack who will hold my hand. I realize not everyone is so fortunate to have such support, so I do not take them for granted. Just as each one is there for me, I am here for them. Thank you to my six pack for having my back.

Lovingly,

Self