The Power of Friendship in Midlife and Beyond

Women’s friendships are powerful at any stage of life, but as we get older, they take on a whole new meaning. They can be a source of deep connection, joy, and even healing. But they can also change, evolve, and sometimes even fade.

Friendships are More Than Just Socializing – Our friendships in midlife aren’t just about having fun; they provide emotional support, improve mental health, and even contribute to longevity. Research shows that strong social connections can reduce stress and lower the risk of dementia and heart disease.

Friendships can Shift Over Time – We’ve outgrown the mom groups and play groups from our kids’ early years and school years, and our social circles may have changed due to life transitions— like divorce, empty nest, retirement, or even relocation.

Our friendships can provide an emotional lifeline – Unlike romantic relationships, friendships can be uniquely stable and offer unconditional support. Friends can fill the gaps where family or partners may not be as present or understanding.

Why Can friendships Be Harder to Maintain as we get older? 

• Busy Lives & Changing Priorities are a factor– With careers, caregiving for aging parents, and personal health issues, making time for friendships can sometimes feel like a luxury.

• Moving & Life Transitions – Many women relocate after 50, whether for downsizing, retirement, or a fresh start. This can mean losing easy access to longtime friends.

• Friendship Drifts – Sometimes, friendships naturally fade. We may find that our values, interests, or lifestyles no longer align. And that’s okay. We may change and evolve, and our friendships can too.

What can we do to Build & Maintain Friendships in Midlife?  

1. Be Intentional – Friendships take effort. Schedule regular check-ins, send a simple text, or plan a coffee date.

2. Expand Your Circles – If old friendships have faded, seek new ones! Join a book club, take a class, or get involved in a cause you care about. Online communities, like Blooming Together, can also be great ways to connect.

3. Embrace Vulnerability – Real friendships deepen when we open up. Be willing to share your struggles, joys, and dreams. I’m not saying to overshare, but sometimes when you open up, you find that others may be experiencing the same situations or challenges as you- and you will be able to support one another, and it feels good to not feel alone.

4. Let Go of Expectations – Friendships look different now. They don’t have to be daily or even weekly connections. Quality over quantity matters. One thing that I’ve noticed with my good friends is that we don’t necessarily talk or text every day, but when we do- it’s like no time has passed. We just pick up where we left off. And don’t take it personally if someone doesn’t get back to you immediately. People are busy, and life happens.

5. And lastly- Reconnect with Old Friends – Sometimes, a simple message saying, “I was thinking about you” can reignite a wonderful friendship. The old friends are so fun too! The friends who knew you when you were young- without all the responsibilities you have now as an adult. Connecting with old friends can ignite some very funny stories too. My best friend through high school and college is still my best friend now. We didn’t always communicate consistently over the years- especially when our kids were young- and we were so busy all the time. But as we’ve gotten older, we talk often and text almost every day. She lives in the Midwest, and I live in the Pacific Northwest, so we don’t see each other that much, but when we do those are some of the best times of my life. No one can make me laugh like her- and we, of course, think we are the funniest people on the planet- she nurtures my soul, she knows what to say to make me feel better when I’m down, and she builds me up. Find yourself a friend like my friend, Vicki!

I also want to mention the deep connections I formed with my sorority sisters back in college. Those friendships were some of my first real experiences of sisterhood—late nights, shared secrets, big dreams, and plenty of laughter. Over the years, we all went our separate ways—careers, families, different parts of the country—but what’s been truly amazing is how some of those same women are now showing up to support me in this new season of life. As I’ve launched my business and followed my passion for helping women, they’ve cheered me on, shared my work, and reminded me of who I’ve always been. It’s such a beautiful full-circle moment, and proof that even when friendships change form, the love and support can still remain strong decades later.

And cheers to the friends I’ve made as an adult. As we grow older, the new friendships we form often come from shared values, similar life experiences, or simply the comfort of being truly seen. These connections may not have decades of history behind them, but they’re often rooted in deeper authenticity. Whether it’s bonding over career changes, parenting challenges, or personal growth, adult friendships can feel like a breath of fresh air—free from the expectations of who we used to be and grounded in who we are now. They remind us that it’s never too late to connect, laugh, and be supported by someone who just gets it.

If you want to Cultivate Deeper Friendships  

• Think about Celebrating Each Other – Lift each other up! Whether it’s a big achievement or just surviving a tough week, acknowledging each other matters.

• Practice Active Listening – Ask thoughtful questions and truly listen. Friendships thrive on mutual care and attention.

• Be the Friend You Want to Have – Show up, check in, and offer support.

• Create Traditions – Whether it’s a monthly dinner, an annual trip, or a simple weekly phone call, rituals help friendships stay strong.

My circle is small, but it’s truly wonderful. At this stage in life, I’m not looking for quantity—I’m seeking quality, and I’ve found that in the few people I call friends. These are the ones who show up, who listen without judgment, who make me laugh until my belly hurts, and hold space when I need to fall apart. There’s something beautiful about knowing you don’t need a crowd—just a handful of genuine souls who really see you. It’s in these quiet, steady friendships that I’ve found the kind of connection that matters most.

Friendships in midlife and beyond can be some of the most rewarding and fulfilling relationships we have. They remind us of who we are, offer us joy and laughter, and support us through the highs and lows of life. So, nurture your friendships, be open to new connections, and never underestimate the power of having a strong circle of women in your life.

Until next time, keep blooming, keep thriving, and keep lifting each other up! And make some plans with a friend or group of friends! Connection is crucial to our longevity and wellbeing. Take care of yourself!