Is it really necessary to look at friends in terms of "ROI"? Should I calculate the ROI for each friend? And if a particular friend falls below his/her expected "return" (however that's calculated) then do I ditch them?
> Your current friends and "business-minded people" aren't the only options.
I agree, I inferred that these were the only two options from the "change your friends" advice. I wanted to highlight the importance of having a good set of people around you, and that aiming only for business-minded people is probably a bad idea (in my opinion). Especially since I've seen this advice handed out more than once on this forum and others.
How about HOI - happiness on investment. If you're happy with your social life, don't change it. If you aren't, then why the hell are you repeating the patterns that got you there?
Absolutely. So, what is the ROI on your investment? And, do you understand what "sunk costs" means?
> I couldn't imagine deliberately splitting away from them in order to meet more business-minded people.
Then don't. However, the consequences of your choices don't depend on whether you want said consequences.
While you're at it, look up "false dilemma". Your current friends and "business-minded people" aren't the only options.