Morning Motivation from Teddy Nuh: Finding Friendship That Heals

Mornings are often seen as a time for reflection and renewal. They symbolize new beginnings, fresh perspectives, and the opportunity to reset your mindset for the day ahead. For many, starting the day with positive affirmations or motivational messages sets the tone for productivity and mental well-being. One such message that has resonated with many comes from a verse of *Gurindam 12* – *"Cari olehmu akan sahabat yang boleh dijadikan obat"*. Translated, this verse encourages us to seek friends who can serve as a remedy, healing and nurturing our spirits.

In today’s fast-paced world, true friendship has become more important than ever. A friendship that heals is one that brings comfort, strengthens character, and pushes us toward becoming the best version of ourselves. It is a form of emotional medicine that keeps us resilient in the face of challenges. Drawing from the wisdom of this quote, this article delves deep into the significance of finding such friendships and how they can positively influence our lives, especially when started from the morning motivation.

### The Power of a Motivated Morning

Waking up every morning with a positive mindset is a crucial aspect of starting the day right. Many successful people advocate for establishing morning routines that foster both physical and mental well-being. Whether it's through morning exercise, journaling, or a few moments of mindfulness, setting the intention for the day can provide clarity and focus. But more importantly, morning is also a time for emotional replenishment.

The image accompanying the *Gurindam* quote depicts children playing with joy and carefree spirit, a scene that reminds us of simpler times when friendships were built on trust, shared happiness, and innocence. This joy can be something we carry forward into adulthood when we surround ourselves with friends who bring us peace and healing, even on difficult days.

Starting your morning by reflecting on your relationships and the people you surround yourself with is powerful. When you consciously acknowledge those who are supportive and uplifting, you can start your day feeling more motivated, confident, and ready to face whatever comes your way. Thus, morning motivation becomes not only about internal readiness but also about external connections – the friendships that fuel our inner fire.

### The Healing Power of Friendship

It is often said that we are the sum of the people we surround ourselves with. The friends we keep can either elevate our lives or bring negativity into them. True friendship, as described in the *Gurindam* verse, has a profound healing quality. These types of friendships are not just about shared moments of joy but are defined by the ability to support each other during challenging times.

A friend who acts as a remedy is one who listens without judgment, offers encouragement, and helps you see the brighter side of life even in the darkest times. They serve as emotional pillars when we are weak, guiding us to make better decisions, and providing a safe space for us to be vulnerable. They uplift our spirits when we are feeling low and motivate us when we lack the energy to move forward.

But what makes these friendships so healing?

1. **Empathy and Understanding**: Friends who truly understand your struggles can offer the most valuable support. Their empathy allows you to feel seen and heard, and this in itself can be incredibly healing.

2. **Positive Influence**: Healing friendships encourage growth. When you surround yourself with positive people, their optimism and energy naturally rub off on you, making you more optimistic and resilient.

3. **Emotional Comfort**: Being around a friend who brings comfort reduces stress and anxiety. Their presence can help soothe emotional wounds, providing a balm to our mental health.

4. **Accountability and Growth**: True friends hold us accountable. They motivate us to rise to our potential, ensuring that we stay on track toward achieving our goals. In this way, they become part of our personal development journey.

### The Art of Choosing the Right Friends

The idea of finding friends who act as medicine also implies the importance of discernment in choosing our social circles. Not everyone we meet will have a positive impact on our lives, and it is essential to recognize the difference between healthy and toxic friendships. Toxic friendships can drain energy, increase stress, and derail us from our goals.

On the other hand, healing friendships empower us. The energy we receive from these friendships adds to our personal strength. But how do you identify and cultivate such friendships?

1. **Shared Values**: Look for friends who align with your values and beliefs. When you have common ground, the friendship will naturally flow in a positive direction. Shared values ensure that you both are committed to uplifting each other.

2. **Mutual Respect**: True friendship is built on respect. Without respect, even the most fun and exciting friendships can turn sour. Healing friendships are those where respect is given freely and mutual understanding is a cornerstone.

3. **Authenticity**: Be yourself and seek friends who allow you to be your authentic self. When both parties can be real, without fear of judgment, the friendship can grow deeper and more meaningful.

4. **Supportive and Uplifting**: Friends who are genuinely happy for your successes and who stand by you in tough times are the ones worth keeping. These friends act as your emotional ‘medicine,’ helping you recover when life knocks you down.

### Friendship as a Lifelong Source of Healing

The *Gurindam* quote speaks to the idea that friendship is not just a short-term remedy but a long-term source of healing and growth. As we progress through life, friendships can serve different purposes at different stages. In our youth, friends provide fun, joy, and the simple pleasures of companionship. As we grow older, friendships can become more profound, offering emotional, intellectual, and even spiritual support.

Moreover, the bonds we form with true friends can last a lifetime, becoming even more valuable as we face the ups and downs of adulthood. Whether it's dealing with personal struggles, career challenges, or family responsibilities, a supportive friend can make all the difference. This long-term connection nurtures both parties and allows each person to grow in their unique ways while still sharing common ground.

### The Role of Friendship in Success

In addition to being a source of healing, friendship can be a driving force behind success. Many successful people attribute their achievements not only to their own efforts but also to the supportive friendships they've cultivated along the way.

For instance, having friends who motivate you can inspire you to push your limits. They can provide constructive feedback, help you see opportunities you may have missed, and cheer you on when the going gets tough. This form of positive reinforcement helps you maintain focus and keeps you striving toward your goals.

Friendship also helps us stay grounded. When success comes, it's easy to lose sight of what truly matters, but having friends who have been there through thick and thin reminds us of our roots. These friends keep us humble and remind us to give back, making success all the more meaningful.

### Creating a Morning Ritual Around Friendship

Incorporating the theme of friendship into your morning motivation can have transformative effects on your day and, eventually, your life. A morning ritual that focuses on friendship can include:

1. **Gratitude for Friends**: Begin the day by reflecting on the friends who have supported you. Think about how they have impacted your life and express gratitude for their presence.

2. **Morning Affirmations**: Include affirmations that emphasize the value of positive, healing friendships. For example, "I attract friends who uplift and inspire me" or "I am surrounded by people who encourage my growth."

3. **Reach Out**: Make it a habit to reach out to a friend in the morning. Whether it's a quick text to check in or a thoughtful message of encouragement, starting your day by connecting with someone who matters can boost both your mood and theirs.

4. **Evaluate Relationships**: Take a few moments in the morning to reflect on your friendships. Are there toxic relationships that are dragging you down? Are there supportive friends you should invest more time in? Regularly evaluating your relationships can help ensure that your social circle remains a source of positivity and healing.

### Conclusion: Seek Friends Who Heal

As the *Gurindam* wisely advises, seek friends who can act as your remedy, who can heal your wounds and uplift your spirits. Such friendships are priceless, and when nurtured, they can lead to profound emotional, psychological, and even spiritual healing. By starting each morning with motivation rooted in gratitude and friendship, you set yourself on a path to greater well-being and success.

Morning motivation is not just about internal drive; it’s about recognizing the external forces that contribute to your growth and happiness. Friends who heal are those forces, and by seeking them out, you take an important step toward living a fuller, more meaningful life.