Key Relationships: 5 Professions Every Adult Should Have in Their Network

Hello everyone, and welcome back to The Selfish Column. Today, we’re talking about five types of people you need in your life as an adult. These are a list of occupations that I compiled with the help of a really good friend. When he listed these, it made me think about how much it made sense. The main reason, of course, is that I didn’t have these skills but saw their importance. My life is moving, and the struggles I endured in my past made me realize how much I appreciate people in these professions. I found that these were crucial life skills we need in adulthood, but since not all of us are fortunate to possess them, it doesn’t hurt to ask for help. You don’t necessarily need close friendships with people in these fields, but rather a person you can turn to when you need answers. Remember, these professions are governed by their own laws, so Google may not have all the answers to your questions.

Healthcare Physician
Let’s be honest; how many times have you looked up your symptoms on Google and thought you were gonna die if you took your next breath. Having a relationship with someone who understands your health and your future health can be more beneficial in many ways than you think. When I first moved away from home, I had to go to walk-in clinics whenever I got sick and always met with different doctors, even if it was a follow-up appointment. I became so frustrated with the process that it truly made me appreciate the security my parents gave me by appointing a family doctor.

Financial Planner
This is so personal; I can honestly say that I never took money management seriously until I moved out on my own. The concept of it has always been something people avoid talking about until shit hits the fan. But as I got older, I realized the only way I could get ahead of this was to tackle my own issues and build a relationship with the one place where I kept my money, and that was my bank.

Real Estate Agent
I am a renter, but a few of my friends are in a phase in which they are either becoming homeowners or looking for specific locations to rent. I have learned from this that building a concrete relationship with someone in the real estate field makes your search so much easier. Having someone who knows your taste and can scout places for you when you are not able to can cut down on unnecessary meet-ups. This is important for the busy body and those with conflicting work schedules.

Lawyer
This is becoming so relevant to my life. Years ago, I went through a situation that cost me $1500. It all could have been avoided if I had done the transaction legally and not just through word of mouth. I am not saying that you need a lawyer for everything, but it is important to have a positive relationship with someone who understands the law. Having someone who knows the law can also be helpful when you are at a point in your life when you are getting married, buying a home or even starting a business.

Mechanic
How many of us have had a problem with our cars and thought it was minor, only to leave the mechanic shop feeling defeated and POOR? I have gone through some real struggles with my cars and hated my life for it. After many years of these difficult lessons, I decided to not only learn more about the vehicles I purchase but also build a relationship with someone who knows my car and my car choices. Lucky for me, this person is my husband.

I hope you enjoyed the list. If you have more to add to this topic, I would love to hear from you in the comment section. This is just a list of relationships I have learned to appreciate since starting to live on my own.

If you made it this far, thank you. Until next time, Selfish Readers.