Are You a Good Friend?
Transcript of video…
Are you a good friend? No, really, are you a good friend?
The Power of Friendship: Why We Need to Prioritize Meaningful Connections
In our society, friendships are often seen as secondary to romantic relationships and family bonds. We pour energy into finding a life partner, raising children, or climbing the career ladder, yet friendships tend to fall to the wayside. But what if we’ve been conditioned to undervalue one of the most fulfilling and stabilizing relationships in our lives?
The Social Conditioning of Friendship
From an early age, we are taught that friendships are important, but only to a point. As we grow older, the emphasis shifts toward finding “the one,” building a nuclear family, and securing our futures. While those things are meaningful, they shouldn’t come at the cost of deep and lasting friendships.
Many people experience the sting of friendships fading as life gets busier. Priorities shift, responsibilities grow, and before we know it, the friends we once shared everything with become occasional names in our inboxes. Unlike romantic relationships, where there is often a clear expectation of effort and commitment, friendships tend to be seen as more flexible—something that can endure without constant attention. But that’s not always the case.
The Loneliness Epidemic
With more people than ever reporting feelings of isolation, it’s clear that neglecting friendships has consequences. Strong friendships serve as a source of emotional support, shared joy, and personal growth. Unlike family, who we are connected to by birth, or romantic partners, who often become intertwined with our daily responsibilities, friendships exist in a space of chosen connection—one that requires intention and effort to sustain.
The reality is, no single person—no spouse, no family member—can meet all of our emotional and social needs. It takes a village, and friendships play a crucial role in that village.
How to Prioritize Friendships
If you’ve felt distant from friends or realized that you’ve let some important relationships slip away, you’re not alone. Here are a few ways to shift the focus back to meaningful friendships:
Be Intentional – Just like romantic relationships, friendships require care. Reach out, check in, and show up for the people who matter to you.
Create Rituals – Whether it’s a monthly dinner, a regular phone call, or a shared hobby, having traditions strengthens bonds.
Communicate Openly – Friendships, like any relationship, benefit from honesty. Express appreciation, set boundaries, and talk through challenges.
Don’t Wait for Convenience – Life will always be busy. Prioritizing friendships means making time, even when it’s not easy.
The Takeaway
Friendships are more than just a luxury; they are a necessity for a fulfilling life. If we continue to treat them as optional, we risk losing some of the deepest and most meaningful connections available to us. By making an effort to nurture these relationships, we create a network of love, support, and belonging that enriches every aspect of our lives.
So, who’s a friend you’ve been meaning to reach out to? Maybe today’s the day.
