The Power of Female Friendships
As women, we grow up knowing that we have to fit into specific roles, prove our seat at the table, and nurture our loved ones. But amidst this burden of expectations and the chaos of everyday life, female friendships offer a unique solace. They are a vital force in our lives, providing us with love, support, and understanding that is hard to find in any other relationship.
Starting at a young age, friendships between girls are built on a foundation of shared secrets, dreams, and worries. As we grow older, these bonds evolve into a safe space for growth, providing an unwavering source of strength and encouragement that transcends time and distance. Our girlfriends have the power to uplift, inspire, and guide us through life's ups and downs. As adults, most of our female friendships are grounded in trust, honesty, and mutual respect. They allow us to explore different aspects of ourselves and grow as individuals. Whether it's sharing secrets, laughing together, or simply being there for each other, female friendships offer a sense of belonging and connection that is rare to find.
Perhaps the most remarkable aspect of female friendships is the level of emotional support they provide. Gone are the days when women tried to show a picture-perfect life to the rest of the world (at least we hope, that’s well behind us). Women are now vulnerable with each other, a quality most men find hard to match up, and this vulnerability leads to a deeper level of connection. We confide in each other about our deepest fears, insecurities, and aspirations, and receive empathy, advice, and comfort in return. This warm cushion of support helps us feel heard, understood, and supported in a way that may not be possible to find elsewhere.
In the wild, female elephants are known as fierce protectors. And when one of their sisters is suffering, they circle up around her. They close in tight, watch guard, and even kick dust around her to mask her vulnerable scent from predators. And yet, we are the same. This is who we are, and who we are meant to be for each other. At times we are the ones in the middle. Other times we are the ones kicking up dust with fierce, fierce love. But the circle remains.
Research has shown that having a strong network of friends also has a positive impact on our mental health*. One such study conducted by the University of Michigan found that those with a strong social support system were less likely to develop depression. Furthermore, those who did experience depression were more likely to recover if they had a strong network of friends to turn to for support. Another study published in the Journal of Health and Social Behavior found that having a strong network of friends can help reduce stress. Even in the face of challenging life events, individuals with a strong support system were able to manage stress more effectively.
Different friends play different roles in our lives. A work friend might provide the strength to overcome obstacles at the workplace and strive for success, whereas a childhood friend may be the one you turn to for advice on important life decisions. Hence we must choose our inclement wisely, we are, after all, the company we keep. The people we keep in our lives, build relationships with, and interact with regularly will ultimately determine who we form ourselves with. Their actions and reactions good or bad as well as behaviors, all subconsciously influence our daily choices and decisions.
Female friendships are a testament to the power and resilience of womanhood. They remind us that we are not alone in this journey and that we have a sisterhood to rely on. They remind us of the beauty of diversity and the richness that comes from embracing and supporting one another. These bonds are not just about sharing good times; they have the power to transform our lives.
In a world filled with people trying to pull each other down, this bond of sisterhood keeps us going. Let us cherish and nurture these connections because "friendship is the only cement that will ever hold the world together." - Woodrow Wilson.
So choose your Sakhees wisely, and when you do, never let them go!