The importance of female relationships
We are collectively trying to leave the "women bringing down other women" narrative in the past. It's outdated and honestly non-productive. Instead, we should be all about building each other up. This begins with women building solid bonds. So then, why do so many women still struggle to create female friendships? This month let's celebrate International Women's Day and female relationships!
Photograph: International Women's Day FB Page
Text: Lyndsay Jensen
Female friendships can be some of the most rewarding, fulfilling, supportive, and, let's face it, the best relationships we can have. In addition, some studies show that same-sex friendships are beneficial in times of stress. It's no secret that women often stay friends for a long time, sharing solid bonds and memories.
Women "get" each other
Sure, men are great. But women's emotional connection and empathy when talking to another woman are unparalleled. Women think alike, and this helps them build the strongest of bonds. They aren't afraid of getting emotional with their friends or venting their frustrations to each another.
Your close girlfriends are always there for you. Female friends are your greatest cheerleader, big sisters, and confidence builders. No matter what, you know you can rely on your best female friend to have your back and be loyal to the core.
Struggles and emotions
Having female friends is great because you have a group of like-minded individuals who know your struggles. Whether that is dealing with your most recent encounter of mansplaining or running out of tampons, your girls know how it feels. You can relate to them; they can help you feel understood even in your worst moments.
Let's face it, women are more emotionally-inclined than men. They can easily empathize with people, which helps create a better communication dynamic within female friendships. Since women are so open about how they feel and when they're hurt, they have no problem telling it like it is. If your friends are mad at you, they'll tell you why and be honest. This allows female friendships to be super transparent and last longer without grudges taking a toll on the bond for years.
A constant cheerleader
Women love to hype other women. They love feeling confident and safe, making other women feel that way whenever possible. So if you make a new female friend, chances are they'll be the first to comment on your latest social media post and compliment you. At the same time, you can also rely on your female friends to be there in your darkest hours. Your girl squad will listen whenever you need to get something off your chest!
"The feminine energy is strong, resilient, kind, motherly, honest, and uplifting. Tapping into this side of yourself amongst other women will help you understand who you are on a whole other level."
Reliable and durable
Making friends can be intimidating. But you'll never regret putting yourself out there and meeting a group of amazing women. Female friendships are long-lasting and incredibly reliable. No matter what is happening in your life, you can count on your girlfriends to be there. That stability and support are priceless. When you're older and still living it up in the group chat, you'll be so happy to have made an effort to meet those women. And if you're struggling to make friends while studying, relocating to a new country, or just during a different stage of your life, put yourself out there and find your go-to group.
Feminine energy
In a world where masculinity is still very dominant, it's incredible to have a group of like-minded women by your side. These women will let you express and grow your femininity anytime you want. The feminine energy is strong, resilient, kind, motherly, honest, and uplifting. Tapping into this side of yourself amongst other women will help you understand who you are on a whole other level.
Female friendships and stress
Female friendships can help you reduce your stress levels. You probably felt that your girlfriends made your life easier and less stressful, and now you know why. According to research, engaging with female friends reduces cortisol levels for women during a lifetime. So take this as your sign to get out there and start looking for like-minded women with whom you can become close friends.
Your girl tribe is for life! Friendships are one of the most critical aspects of your life, so you have to value them. Whether you have more male or female friends, nurture those bonds and stick to them for the long haul. And if you tend only to seek male peers, look for female friendships too. Put yourself out there and make friendships that will last you a lifetime.
In a statement by UN Secretary-Genreal António Guterres in 2022, he expressed his support for International Women's Day as we celebrated women and girls everywhere. He highlighted their contributions to ending the COVID-19 pandemic, ideas, innovations and activism changing our world for the better - and their leadership across all walks of life.
We wish you all a Happy International Women's Day!