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Writer's pictureBridget Belden

Intentional Friending (Yes, it’s a thing!)



Your Magenta Monday Magic.


As we wrap up this month’s theme on cultivating the different relationships in our lives, we have to talk about the importance of friends.


And in the spirit of friendship and the arrival of spring,


"Let us be grateful to the people who make us happy; they are the charming gardeners who make our souls blossom.” —Marcel Proust



Personally, I am fortunate to have very close friends. These are my posse. The people who have my back, who held my hair when I overindulged in my younger years, and who make me laugh until I cry. Or wet my pants.


(The latter possibly more frequently than the former as I age.)



During the shift to an empty nest, you may find many friendships made through sports, committees, and volunteer groups are falling away - kids grow up and out, and the often tenuous tethers of these friendships often aren’t strong enough to hold. And that’s ok.


Many clients I work with are seeking new friendships and it’s not easy when you don’t have school-aged kids and all their activities to help you out.



Here’s a secret: Making new friends takes intention.


Cultivating new friendships takes focus and intention, just like any other important thing in your life.


So think about what you want from your friendship, and create a plan to get there.


Sound weird?


Consider that finding a friend is similar to finding a romantic partner. In fact, online dating site Bumble has created a friendship site proving that the methodology isn’t that much different. (See link below)



This week I invite you to find activities that might present new opportunities to meet fun, like-minded women. Remember as you get more comfortable and confident with who you are and what you have to offer, you will naturally attract those people who are drawn to YOU.


 

Monday Mindshift


  1. If you are ‘starting over from scratch’ - this can be exciting! Check out these sites to start. hellorevel.com seeks to connect women 40+ and meetup which is a little more generalized but farther reaching. There are also sites like bumble bff which I have not personally experienced but know women who have.

  2. Think about an activity that you would like to try and look up social groups online that might be fun to join such as swing dancing, pottery, or perhaps a book or wine lovers club.

  3. Take the opportunity to re-connect with a friend that you’ve lost touch with, and text or call to catch up and set a date to get together. Even if she (or he) lives far away, you can Facetime or Zoom.

And if you feel good about where you are with your social group, make sure to nurture those relationships so you can reap the benefits of having a group that can provide that support when you need it, and make you laugh until you cry. Or pee (just a little).


Great friendships take work, so don’t take them for granted and this ‘friendship week’ is the perfect chance to put the work in.


Love Xoxo,



 

Living BRIGHTer is...


B - Be Brave

R - Cultivate Relationships

I - Live with Intention

G - Practice Gratitude

H - Prioritize Health

T - Live your Truth


What is Magenta?


The color magenta is one of universal harmony and emotional balance. It is spiritual yet practical, encouraging common sense and a balanced outlook on life. Magenta helps to create harmony and balance in every aspect of life; physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually.


Click on my calendar link to sign up for a FREE 45-minute Pathway to Purpose Breakthrough Session now.



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