Better female friendships are earned, and for some, may require a change in behavior and habits. As every one of us is a multifaceted, busy human being just trying their best to remain happy and have meaningful relationships, we may not notice when we’re getting in our own way. So what are some steps women can take to be better friends to the important females in their lives?
In this episode, you’ll learn:
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If you’re looking to experience more joy, freedom, and depth in your female friendships, these small changes in behavior and approach to the women who are cared for in your life are game-changers. Sometimes friends must lead by example for the relationships that they want to maintain and get life from.
We Are NOT The Same, and That’s Okay
Research suggests that it IS very important for women to have similarities and symmetries in their friendships. This falls into other areas of our lives like our romantic relationships, but it is interesting to note that this relationship trait is more expected from women than men. So if this research holds, how do women determine when their female friends are no longer fitting the expected mold? Whether it pertains to their health choices, parenting styles, partner, or financial decisions, there’s always at least one moment when one must take a step back and be real – yes, my friend does have different behaviors and opinions than me. This may come as a no-brainer to most. One may think, of course, my friend can make different choices, and I’ll respect the person that she is regardless of whether we have different views. But what happens after that realization? Does one begin reconsidering that female friendship off the bat? Or maybe it happens slowly, through emotional withdrawal, pangs of jealousy, passive attempts at controlling, or underlying judgment. Do these differences begin to diminish the woman’s character? Friendship expert, Danielle Bayard Jackson, challenges everyone to stop and notice the expectation that you’re friends' life choices should mirror your own.
Express Yourself
If you’re not new, but true to this podcast, you may remember the episode, TikTok, or social posts that discussed the importance of affirmative boundaries in friendships with women. To recap, the action of expressing boundaries to people you care about can come across as rejection, and therefore cause some reluctance to do so. This is where affirmative boundaries shine – give your friends your form of yes instead of a hard, unproductive no as a response. It is possible to erect boundaries that protect your sanity while maintaining an honest and progressive conversation with your friend.
