There is a need for friends who get that life is a juggling act.
“I’ve always been obsessed with the idea of sisterhood. My mom is one of 10 children – five boys, five girls – so I had a lot of aunts around while growing up. My mom had the same two best friends since high school, so I just thought, ‘Oh, I’m gonna go to college, and I’m gonna find these lifelong friends.’ I joined a sorority and other organizations where friendship and companionship were at the helm. But fast forward to me graduating college and starting life as an adult away from those friendships, and I realized adulthood is extremely lonely.
Navigating friendships in your 20s versus your 30s is like comparing apples and oranges, seriously. In my 20s, it was all about exploration – career, relationships, you name it. We were all on different paths, some searching for love, others for adventure, and a few just figuring out what they wanted. I was right there with them, soaking up every moment of freedom and self-discovery. I don’t think that exploration stops in your 30s, but the tools you need and the paths you need to take are a lot clearer.
Personally, things shifted fast for me in my 30s. I welcomed a child, got engaged, and suddenly, priorities were rearranged quicker than you can say ‘adulting.’ Self-awareness kicked in, and I realized I needed friends who were on the same page – willing to grow, heal, and understand the complexities of life. Nowadays, it’s all about quality over quantity. I’ve trimmed down my circle to those who bring joy, understanding, and, most importantly, reciprocity. Yeah, it was tough saying goodbye to some old friends, but it had to be done for my own peace of mind.
In this crazy world where time is the most precious commodity, I’m all about spending it with those who uplift and support me – friends who get that life’s a juggling act and offer grace when needed.”
- Leticia Owens, 34, Las Vegas, Nevada