They say you are the average of the five people you spend the most time with.
Looking back at my life, I realize how lucky I have been. Because of life circumstances, I changed schools every 3 or 4 years. At the time, it was difficult moving around, but now I see the blessing in it. It forced me to live with many different people, and each person was like a walking library of lessons.
My self today is a work in progress. Most of the good habits I have today. I “stole” them.
I looked at my roommates, classmates, and friends, and whenever I saw something beautiful in their character, I tried to copy it. And whenever I saw a negative trait? I prayed to God to remove that bad habit from me, too.
I am not perfect at these yet, but here are the life-changing habits I picked up from the incredible people around me.
The Art of Showing Up
Do you only work when you “feel” like it? I used to be like that.
But then I met Mahbub. He taught me that you must always show up—even when you are sick, even when you are tired. Consistency isn’t about feelings; it’s about duty.
Then there was Raed, who showed me the power of a strict routine. He didn’t just drift through the day; he designed it. Ali, despite managing many roles, would always somehow just get things done. And Carlos? He never procrastinated. If there was a challenge, he tackled it instantly.
Ask yourself: Are you waiting for motivation, or are you moving like Carlos?
Living with Order and Facts
Have you ever met someone who is so orderly and is never late? That was Legrande. He maintained orderliness everywhere—in his room, in the dining hall, even on public transport. He taught me that a cluttered space leads to a cluttered mind.
In my work, I learned a hard lesson from Khalid. He taught me to never assume. Even if you think you are a “pro,” you must always work with facts. And Maryam showed me the power of looking ahead. She plans her life months in advance and—this is the important part—she rewards herself when she hits her targets.
The Heart of Friendship
We often think being a “good friend” is just hanging out. But my friends taught me it is much deeper.
There is a friend we call Chairman. He is a very busy man, but he always finds time to ask after his friends almost every weekend. Tolu took it a step further—he sends a Voice Note praying for his friends every Friday.
And you cannot talk about friendship without mentioning AJ. He always has goodies and snacks to share, and he would always go out of his way to help anyone in need. MTD taught me to vocalize appreciation—he always praised people for their good qualities.
When was the last time you told a friend what you admire about them?
Spiritual Anchors
The most important habits are the ones that connect us to our Creator.
From Muna, I learned to lower my ego and ask friends: “Please make Dua for me.” From Abdouramane, I learned honesty—to leave what makes me doubt for what gives me peace.
And Bro Idris showed the highest resilience in the most non-negotiable habit of all – Never missing fajr prayer – no matter what.
The Wisdom from Home
Finally, the deepest roots come from my parents (my best friends).
My Mum gave me a rule I try to live by: “When you see something you don’t like in someone, check yourself first.” It keeps me humble. And my Dad taught me to be unapologetic about my values. He taught me to keep my promises and value myself.
A Work in Progress
I am sharing this not because I have mastered all these qualities. I share this as a way to say Thank You to every friend who has impacted my life.
I am still trying to be as organized as Legrande, as generous as AJ, and as disciplined as Mahbub.
Look at your circle of friends today. What positive habits can you “steal” from them?
Who is one friend that changed your life for the better? Send them this post to say thank you.
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