How friendships change as we grow older
In the pyramid of human relationships, friendships are at the base, and on top of them are romantic partners, parents, and children. What sets friendships apart is our active choice in forming them, unlike our family ties. The beauty of life is that everything evolves and transforms as time goes by, and so do friendships. These changes can be both exhilarating and bittersweet.
Quality over quantity
In our youth, we might have had a wide circle of friends. However, as responsibilities set in, we begin to understand the true worth of friendships. We realize that it's not about having tons of friends, but having a few close ones who are like family. We focus on quality, not quantity - picking the friends who make us feel valued and loved.
Limited interactions
Friendships are easier to maintain when you are young because you get to see the same people every day. But as adults, life changes can lead friends to have different priorities. Some friendships fade away as they were more situational than true connections. You will also cherish and make an effort to keep in touch with those who truly mean a lot to you.
Values become clearer
You begin to understand what really matters to you in life. When you are young, you make friends based on similar interests. But as you grow up, your values become more important than just having similar hobbies. You might have fewer friends, but you get to know them better, and your bond becomes stronger. It's natural for your interests to change as you evolve.
Embracing individuality
As we mature, we become more open-minded and accepting of our friends' different life choices. They may take different career paths, explore new relationships, and travel to different places. Even though their journeys may be different from ours, our friendship remains strong and unwavering. We learn to embrace and support them no matter what, knowing that their choices are important for their personal growth.
Age-diverse friendships become the norm
Your circle of friends becomes more diverse in age. In your younger years, most friends may be around the same age. But as you mature, you might have friends much older or younger than you. Older friends offer wisdom and understanding, having been through similar situations. Younger friends keep you updated with current trends and pop culture, pushing you out of your comfort zone.
