When a friendship changes

You're in good company. So many amazing women I know are going through this – and not with each other. It can be stressful. It can hurt. Three thoughts on friendship to help bring comfort and perspective:

#1: Friendships do change, and sometimes that's a good thing. It may be a sign of growth, or simply reflect that you've entered a new season.

Example: Now that you're retired, a friend assumes you're available at all hours. Thank you for letting them know you're not. Boundaries are what allow you and your friendships to thrive.

Maybe you've lived through a life-altering crisis, and you're no longer the same person. It happens. Honor it, even if it means letting a few friendships drift. You don't have to announce it or explain it. You can just be a little less available.

#2: The better the friend, the lower the maintenance. Low-maintenance is an underrated quality. Example: A good friend might drive you to the airport at 5 a.m., a better friend would never expect you to. (For that, you can reach out to my friend Nader at Exclusive Limousine).

Nothing keeps a friendship thriving like mutual consideration and modest expectations.

#3: The friend who wants less contact sets the pace. I came across this principle in my twenties and have found it to be spot on.

If a friend is pulling back, just observe that and accept it. Rarely is it personal. And if you want less contact, accept that too. It doesn't mean you're a bad friend, it probably just means you're human.

Lastly for now, I'll share what someone told me years ago – someone with 'Ph.D.' after his name: Friendships should not be work. Don't let them be. You've come too far for that.

On a personal note: If you like what you've read, please share this post with one or more of your friends :-) And if you haven't already, I invite you all to sign up for my posts. It's fast and free!