I need to reflect on my social patterns. What I need to learn is how to turn enemies into friends and friends into allies, rather than always thinking of maximizing my own interests.
There is a distinction between finite and infinite games in social relations, and I've been treating socializing as a finite game, where I hope to gain the maximum benefit from others in the shortest time possible. As a result, I'm always harsh on my friends and tend to cut ties once I've gained the most from them. This is not in line with my life philosophy as I aspire to play an infinite game, where I should focus on building relationships that can break through the boundaries of the present rules.
These relationships are like early-stage investors where there's no need to focus on short-term gain and loss or become too involved in others' lives. I should learn to maintain good relationships with everyone. Just like our choices, what's correct at the moment may not be correct ultimately.
Relationships are like work, and I can't approach them the way I used to, focusing only on what is important at the moment. I need to explore the infinite possibilities in building relationships.