The Importance of Girlfriends
Females, raise your hand if you have a girl gang. Almost all of you? That’s what I thought. My girlfriends are like sisters to me, they’re a second family. I try to see them as often as I can, and cherish the days we go out for coffee or a meal, spending time together, just us girls. Our moments together are fun, precious, and, according to a Stanford University study, extremely healthy. There are many reasons female friendships are beneficial to our health. Let me tell you about them…
Stress Relief
The work day is over and
you just need to vent. Who do you call? Your #1 girlfriend. Girlfriends are the world’s best therapists. I’m lucky to have girlfriends who listen to my woes, because they know I’d do the same for them. We often try not to rant and rave, but by sharing our tough times, we actually relieve toxic stress. So let it out, sisters.
Learning new things
No two snowflakes are alike, just as no two people are. By having a group of girlfriends, you’re also diversifying your life. You can learn new things. Not only can you learn more about yourself, but you can learn more about the outside world as well. Whether they take you on an adventure or show you a new perspective, friends always have something to teach and share. My closest friend, Em, has taught me many things over our 12 year friendship, but the thing that stands out the most is that, no matter how many times I’ve felt wronged by someone – whether my husband, other friends, or even family – she always gets me to look at it in a different light. I’d be whining or crying or just plain ticked off about what someone said or did and she’d say “maybe this is how they meant it.” I’ll be honest: it’s not necessarily what I want to hear, but it’s always what I need to hear. To show a little grace, and, what comes next? You got it! Forgiveness.
Connection
Friendships are special bonds between people, and studies have shown that these bonds will chemically improve your mental health. Connections, especially among friends, actually produce serotonin in the brain, a neurotransmitter that combats depression and fuels good feelings. Whether you want them to or not, having a positive group of girlfriends will truly make you happy.
Confidence booster
You know those days when no clothes seem to fit, and you can only pay attention to your thighs and that pimple on your chin? Honey, we’ve all had them. Join the club. Those tough times are what girlfriends are for. When you face self-esteem issues, you can count on a cluster of closest friends to pick you up. Just by being on the other line, they make you feel valuable and important. And, no, your butt does not look fat in those jeans!
Loyalty
Having true gal pals means having friends forever. With close friendships, you are in the constant practice of trust and selflessness. When these qualities are built and displayed, loyalty sets in. Knowing someone always has your back builds confidence in your decisions and gives you a calmness of mind.
Moral Of The Story
Choose your friends wisely!
Create a support system around you!
Be that BEST FRIEND to someone!
Encourage the women around you and lift them up when they are down!
