The Power of Female Friendship: Why Women Need Each Other Now More Than Ever
There’s a special kind of magic that happens when women come together. It’s not just about the laughter that leaves you gasping for air, or peeing your pants--or the inside jokes that only your closest friends understand. It’s the connection—the unspoken something that we women share through similar life experiences and events, just because we are female.
For women, especially in midlife, having real, authentic connections are more than a luxury; they’re a necessity.
But in the whirlwind of careers, families, and life’s endless to-do lists, friendships often fall to the bottom of the priority pile. We tell ourselves we’ll make time when things slow down, but here’s the truth: things rarely slow down. If anything, the years fly by faster. I don’t know about you, but I have woken up in the middle of the night and realized that my kiddos are almost all grown up and that knowledge hit me like a ton of bricks!! As we navigate the transitions of midlife—from perimenopause and empty nests to shifting careers and identities—the relationships we nurture with other women become even more vital.
I’d love to take a moment to explore why friendships matter so much, why they’re worth prioritizing, and how you can rekindle or deepen your connections. By the end of this post, I hope you’ll feel inspired to reach out to the women in your life or even make new friendships. Perhaps even by joining me on a future workshop, retreat or women’s circle. Because your relationships with other women aren’t just important; they can define our lives.
The Science of Female Friendships
Did you know that friendships between women aren’t just emotionally fulfilling but also physically beneficial? Research shows that strong social connections can lower stress levels, improve cardiovascular health, and even extend your lifespan. When women connect, our brains release oxytocin, the so-called “love hormone”, or the "bonding hormone" which helps reduce stress and promotes feelings of trust and bonding. This is the same chemical that releases when we have an orgasm, or when we are birthing a child. But we women are special in that we can produce it over coffee with a girlfriend. How amazing is that?
In midlife, when our hormones are already wreaking havoc, this boost from friendship can be a literal lifesaver. Studies suggest that women with strong social networks are less likely to suffer from depression and anxiety. In fact, the quality of our friendships can be just as important as diet and exercise when it comes to overall well-being.
Why Friendships Matter Even More in Midlife
Midlife can feel like standing at a crossroads. Children grow up and move out, careers evolve, and the roles that have defined us for decades begin to shift. It’s a time of transition and, often, self-discovery. But it can also feel isolating. That’s where friendships come in.
Your friends are the ones who can remind you of who you are at your core. They’ve seen you at your best and your worst and love you through it all. They’re the ones who understand the complexities of juggling aging parents, hormonal changes, and the never-ending quest to “have it all.” And perhaps most importantly, they’re the ones who make you laugh so hard you forget, even for a moment, about the weight of the world.
But these connections don’t happen by accident. They require effort, vulnerability, and a willingness to prioritize time together. That might mean scheduling regular coffee dates, planning weekend getaways, or saying yes to opportunities like a weekend away, a retreat, or a workshop or class, where meaningful connections are not just encouraged but celebrated.
How to Rekindle or Deepen Friendships–or make a new friend!
If you’ve ever felt like your friendships have taken a back seat to the demands of life, you’re not alone. The good news? It’s never too late to connect, reconnect or deepen your bonds. Here are a few ideas:
1. Make the First Move
It can feel awkward to reach out after a long silence, but most of the time, the other person will be thrilled you did. Send a quick text, schedule a coffee date, or simply pick up the phone and call. You don’t need a grand reason; a simple “I was thinking about you” is enough.
If you don’t know someone, but you admire that person and would like to know them better, reach out and tell them. It’s kind of like dating, you have to put yourself out there.
A couple of years ago now, a woman I didn’t know reached out to me and asked if I would have coffee with her because she thought we had a lot in common. I was a little unsure, but to make a long story short, I met with her, loved her spirit and we became fast friends.
2. Be Vulnerable
True connection comes from authenticity. Share what’s really going on in your life—the good, the bad, and the messy. When you open up, you invite others to do the same, creating a deeper bond.
It's easy to pretend everything is perfect and you have it all together. But its not real and it's certainly not going to create meaningful connection.
3. Create Rituals
Whether it’s a monthly book club, a weekly walk, or an annual spa day, rituals provide structure and ensure that time with friends becomes a regular part of your life.
4. Seek New Connections
If you’re craving more friendships, don’t be afraid to put yourself out there. Join a group or class that aligns with your interests, attend local events, or workshops, where you’ll meet like-minded women eager to connect.
Why Now Is the Time to Prioritize Your Friendships
Life is busy, and it’s easy to let friendships slide. But here’s the thing: The time you invest in your relationships now will pay dividends for years to come. These connections will be your support system through life’s ups and downs. They’ll be the ones who celebrate your victories and hold your hand during the tough times.
So why wait? Whether it’s sending a text to an old friend, joining a local group, or saying yes to a transformative experience like one of my immersive trips, take a step toward prioritizing the relationships that matter most.
Ready to Rekindle, Deepen, or Discover New Friendships?
If this post has inspired you to think more deeply about your friendships, I would like to invite you to join me at one of my upcoming events. It’s the perfect opportunity to reconnect with yourself and other incredible women in a setting that fosters growth, joy, and meaningful connection. I'm planning retreats, gatherings, networking lunches, and all sorts of other opportunities to meet new people.
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Your friendships matter. You matter. Let’s celebrate that together.
