The secret to long-lasting friendships
As we grow older, friendships can become even more important to us as children leave home, and careers wind back. Friendships provide us with a sense of community, companionship, and support. But maintaining these relationships can be challenging, especially as we face new life stages and circumstances.
Phoebe Adams is the dedicated founder of Connected Women, an organisation that facilitates friendships for women over 50 through a range of online and in-person events. Here, Phoebe shares her expert advice on the secret to long-lasting friendships.
“As the head of Connected Women, a big part of my job is helping women over 50 to connect and build meaningful relationships. I’m so proud to be able to provide a safe and welcoming space for women to come together, share experiences, and form lasting friendships.”
According to Phoebe, the secret to long-lasting friendships is all about mutual respect, communication, and shared experiences. "When you have a strong foundation built on these three things, your friendships will thrive," she explains.
So, how can you build that foundation with your own friends? Phoebe recommends the following tips:
Be Honest: Good communication is key to any healthy relationship. Make sure you're always honest with your friends, even when it's difficult. If you're upset or angry about something they may have said or done, talk to them about it. It's better to address issues early on before they become bigger problems and having a difficult conversation becomes.
Show Up: It's not enough to just be there for your friends when things are going well. True friendship means showing up when things are tough. Whether they need a listening ear or a helping hand, be there for your friends through thick and thin.
Often one of the hardest things is knowing what to say when something difficult has happened in a friend’s life. Commonly we tend to stand back because we don’t know what to say or how to act, but it’s in these times of adversity that showing up, saying nothing and simply being present is the best possible gift you can give your friend.
Make Memories: Shared experiences are the building blocks of any strong friendship. Make time for fun outings and adventures with your friends. These memories will keep you connected and give you something to look back on fondly.
Phoebe also notes that it's important to be selective about the friendships you choose to maintain. "Not all friendships are created equal, some relationships may no longer serve you, and that's ok. It's important to prioritise the friendships that bring you joy and support you in your life."
So, how do you know which friendships to keep? Phoebe suggests asking yourself the following questions:
- Does this person uplift me and make me feel good about myself?
- Do we have shared values and interests?
- Do they respect my boundaries and support my goals?
- Have we had meaningful experiences together?
If the answer to these questions is yes, then it's likely a friendship worth investing in.
Nurturing and maintaining long-lasting friendships is a fulfilling and rewarding experience. By focusing on communication, respect, and shared experiences, we can strengthen our already-formed friendships and create meaningful connections.
Remember our time is finite, so focus on friendships that bring you joy and support your growth, and don't be afraid to let go of those that no longer serve you. Taking action to invest in your friendships can lead to a happier and more fulfilling life, so seize the opportunity and reap the rewards!
Phoebe Adams is the founder of Connected Women, an organisation providing a community for women over 50 to connect with each other and build meaningful friendships. With a rapidly growing community in Perth, Sydney, Wollongong, and Melbourne, Connected Women provides a safe and welcoming space for women to come together and share experiences. To learn more about the organisation and how you can get involved, visit connectedwomen.net.
Image credits: Getty Images