Friendship Among Women

When something fantastic happens, who do you tell? If you’re married, you probably said your spouse. However, studies say women will most likely answer their best friend.

When you’re in school, it may seem that you have more friends than you need. Then after graduation, everyone seems to go their separate ways. But almost everyone has that one special friend that has always been there for them.

Having a bond with someone in particular is very important. We all have times when we need to share something good or bad or just want to unload a weight from our shoulders.

Studies on women showed that who maintained strong bonds with people outside the home tended to be healthier as they grew older. Those surrounded by friends have longer life expectancies compared to people who isolate themselves, researchers say. Isolated people (both men and women) seem to face similar health risks as people who smoke or are overweight.

We need these bonds to help us through crises and to share new and exciting moments. Some say that when you’re with a close friend, you are able to let loose and be yourself. As a result, your anxiety and stress levels drop.

OK, so now you are in your mid to late 40s. The kids are grown and you find yourself without any friends. What do you do? This is the perfect time in your life to either look up old friends or make new ones. It was a lot easier to make friends when the kids were younger – but remember what helped create those friendship bonds? You had things in common – your children.

When looking for your “new round of friends,” keep the same concept in mind: you’ll want to meet people with whom you have things in common.

One good place to start is with community programs. Look to see if there are classes that appeal to you, such as yoga, exercise or craft classes that are offered near you on a regular basis. After a few sessions, invite another student to the local coffeehouse after class.

Some bookstores and libraries offer reading clubs. If you like to read, this is a wonderful place to start. These groups usually meet once a week to discuss a particular book or author.

Another idea for the busy business person is joining a professional organization. Most of these organizations have local chapters and usually meet once a month. After attending a few meetings, begin to volunteer for projects, then work your way toward nominating yourself to run for an office.

Makeup, candle and kitchenware parties are another good way to meet new people. Offer to throw the next one and ask the attendees if they would come. Opening up your home to others is sometimes the first step to making new friends.

If you don’t work, volunteer at your local library, church, hospital or nursing home. You will meet different people and may develop strong friendships there.

Go back to school. By taking a class (whether to learn about computers, writing or how to fix your car), you can meet people with similar interests.

Friends can help you rationalize situations, raise your self-esteem and forget about little troubles that are on your mind.