Friendships: Finding Your Way

 Friendship can be a tricky thing to navigate. For as long as I can remember, I've wrestled with the question: do I have too many friends or not enough? It’s a delicate balance and one that I know many of us have struggled with at some point in our lives. Just the other day, I was chatting with one of my sisters-in-law, and she shared something that struck a chord. She said there was a time when she dreaded the feeling of having no friends, no one truly in her corner. Fast forward to now, and she’s found herself with an influx of friends, which she loves—but now she’s trying to balance friendships, a busy life, and quality time with her partner.

Sound familiar? I know I’ve been there; I’m sure many of you have. The questions can feel endless and overwhelming: Do I have enough friends? Am I a good friend? Do I have too many friends? Are they good friends to me? It can leave you spinning, unsure of what to do or where to focus your energy.

But here’s the thing: friendship isn’t about the number of people in your life but the quality of your connections. It’s about cherishing the ones who truly see you and stand by you in your highest and lowest highs. Those who love you will understand your boundaries and give you the space to be authentic.

So today, take a moment to send love to the friends who matter most. Reach out with a kind word or a thoughtful message, even if it’s been a while. And remember, it’s okay to need boundaries or to take a step back when life feels overwhelming. The right people will understand, and they’ll be there when you’re ready.

Building and maintaining friendships is a journey. It evolves over time, just as we do. Sometimes, we might outgrow certain connections, and that’s okay. Growth is a natural part of life, and allowing yourself the grace to move forward without guilt is important. Other times, life circumstances like new jobs, relocations, or family responsibilities can shift the dynamics of even the closest friendships. While these changes can be challenging, they can also bring opportunities to deepen connections in unexpected ways.

One thing I’ve learned is the importance of intentionality in friendships. It’s easy to let relationships fall to the wayside when life gets busy, but taking small, deliberate actions can make a big difference. Whether scheduling a monthly coffee date, sending a quick text to check in, or sharing a meaningful memory, these gestures show your friends that you value and care for them. Sometimes, the smallest acts of kindness leave the biggest impact.

Equally important is recognizing the friends who uplift and support you. These are the people who celebrate your successes without envy and stand by you when things get tough. Surrounding yourself with these kinds of friends can make all the difference in your overall well-being. On the flip side, it’s important to recognize when a friendship is draining or toxic. It can be hard to step away from these relationships, but prioritizing your emotional health is crucial.

Remember, friendships are a two-way street. Just as you appreciate support and understanding from others, strive to offer the same in return. Be the kind of friend who listens without judgment, shows up when it matters, and brings light into someone else’s life. Investing in your friendships with care and intention makes the rewards immeasurable.

Most importantly, know this: you are loved. Even in the moments when it feels like no one is in your corner, there is someone who cares deeply for you. And if you ever need a listening ear, I’m here for you. Let’s navigate this friendship journey together.

Payton Blackwood