I’m going to let you in one a little secret….I always felt it difficult to make female friends. It felt forced and I always felt like I as overdoing it. What I’ve realized is that in trying to make friends, I was trying to be what I thought the other person wanted rather than just being me. So those friendships never grew. I’m an amazing chameleon, but when I started being myself, I attracted the friends I actually wanted!
In the world of motherhood, where busy schedules often take the front seat, finding the time and energy to make female friends and deep connections with other moms can seem like an elusive goal. Yet, as your kids grow into adolescence, the need for meaningful friendships becomes even more crucial. Today, let’s explore one of the key skills in support of the 7 Essential Traits of High Achieving Women: how to make female friends and understand why female friendships sometimes end, all while discovering effective ways to find and cultivate lasting connections.
Why Do Female Friendships End?
Before we delve into the art of making and deepening connections, it’s essential to understand the factors that can lead to the end of female friendships. Life is dynamic, and so are relationships. Often, friendships fade due to shifting priorities, changing interests, or simply the demands of a hectic schedule. Or it could be that you’ve grown in different directions and you’re no longer able to serve and support each other in the way you once did. And that’s okay. Of course, misunderstandings or miscommunication can play a role as well.
While it can be hard to let go of a friend, sometimes the best thing for both of you is to accept it. Allowing yourself that peace will open you up to new possibilities. Just recognizing the various challenges can help you navigate them more effectively.
Why Do Female Friendships Matter?
Female friendships are unique and powerful. They offer a support system that understands the intricacies of motherhood, especially during the adolescent years. These connections provide a safe space to share joys, frustrations, and everything in between. Research even suggests that strong social connections contribute to overall well-being, reducing stress and promoting a sense of belonging.
How to Make Female Friends: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Open the Door to Small Talk: Start with the basics. Whether you’re waiting at the school gates or attending a community event, initiate conversations with other moms. Simple greetings and light-hearted comments about shared experiences, like navigating the teenage years, can break the ice.
- Be Genuine and Authentic: People connect with authenticity. Share snippets of your life and experiences, even the imperfect ones. Moms often find solace in knowing they’re not alone in their challenges. So, don’t be afraid to show vulnerability – it’s the bridge to deeper connections.
- Initiate Common Activities: Finding common ground can be the foundation of a strong friendship. Organize activities that align with your interests or hobbies, whether it’s a book club, fitness class, or volunteering opportunity. This provides a natural setting for like-minded moms to come together.
- Attend Social Events: Make an effort to attend social events organized by the school, community, or even online groups. These gatherings create opportunities for casual interactions, allowing friendships to blossom organically.
- Express Interest in Others: Actively listen and show genuine interest in what other moms have to say. Ask open-ended questions about their lives, experiences, and interests. This not only deepens the conversation but also demonstrates your commitment to building a meaningful connection.
Find Female Friends: A Continuing Journey
Building and maintaining friendships is an ongoing process. It’s essential to recognize that not every connection will evolve into a deep, lasting friendship, and that’s okay. Embrace the diversity of your social circle, appreciating the unique qualities each friend brings to your life.
Why Do Female Friendships End? Revisited
As we explore ways to deepen connections, it’s crucial to revisit the question of why female friendships sometimes end. Acknowledge that friendships can naturally ebb and flow, and not every connection is meant to last a lifetime. Understanding this allows us to appreciate the friendships we have, even if they evolve or change over time.
Conclusion: Cultivating Real Connections
Like everything in life, the journey of connecting with other women is both rewarding and challenging. By embracing genuine conversations, finding common ground, and actively participating in social activities, we can move from small talk to real talk. Real female friendships are invaluable, providing the emotional support and understanding needed to navigate the complexities of raising adolescents and everything else. So, let’s continue to invest in these connections, make real female friends, and nurture the bonds that make motherhood all the more meaningful.
My FREE Feed Your Soul guide will help you reinvigorate so you can start feeling like yourself again.
Feel like you’ve lost control of your physical and emotional energy?
I’ve been coaching people to be their best for over twenty years and love seeing them thrive as they adjust the lens they’re looking through. As a mom of teengaers, I realized that I could use my talent to help moms feel less frustrated, isolated and defeated as their kids navigate the challenging teen years. Helping my clients improve their relationship with themselves and honor their needs is my superpower. You’ll love how your energy shifts and your interactions become more positive after working together! I’m excited for you to experience more peace and confidence and live the life you’re meant to live.
