Kathleen

Friendships can be some of the most rewarding and meaningful connections you ever experience. But sometimes, without even realising it, you might develop habits that damage these relationships. When your actions (or inaction) cause unnecessary tension or create distance in your friendships, it could be a case of self-sabotage. This often stems from insecurities, self-doubt, or beliefs about yourself and others that aren't entirely accurate. The good news? You're not alone, and it's fixable. What is Self-Sabotaging in Friendships? Self-sabotage in friendships happens when your thoughts or behaviours get in the way of building or maintaining strong, healthy friendships. It’s [...]

Have you ever thought about how the way you talk to yourself affects your relationships? It’s easy to overlook, but the conversations we have in our own minds often shape how we interact with others. Positive self-talk isn’t just some feel-good exercise, it’s a powerful practice that can form the backbone of strong friendships, meaningful connections, and a happier social life. When you use positive words to speak to yourself, you open the door to being the kind of friend you want to attract. And the friendships built on support, respect, and kindness are the ones that last through both [...]

Hosting a clothing swap is a brilliant way to refresh your wardrobe without spending a cent. It’s also a fun excuse to catch up with friends and maybe even discover a new favourite outfit. I still remember swapping a pair of jeans with a friend that ended up being my go-to for years. With the right prep, a clothing swap can leave everyone feeling like they’ve struck gold. What is a clothing swap? A clothing swap can be a great way to get rid of some of your unwanted clothes and pick up some fresh ones without the financial outlay [...]

Ending a friendship can sometimes be even harder than breaking up with a romantic partner. Friendships come with years of shared memories, trust, and connection. But toxic friendships—those filled with drama, manipulation, or unhealthy competition—can leave you with a hard time deciding what to do next. The fear of confrontation, losing a sense of normalcy, or having your secrets exposed may tempt you to stay. Yet, holding onto a toxic friendship often means sacrificing your own well-being for someone who no longer adds positivity to your life. Regardless of your thoughts and fears, the good news is ending a toxic friendship (or [...]

Sometimes, a little encouragement is all it takes to brighten someone’s day or strengthen a bond that feels a bit distant. Life gets hectic, and it’s easy to overlook the simple yet important act of supporting the people who matter most.  Encouraging friends isn’t just about being there during tough times; it’s about celebrating the good times too, showing that you truly care. What Does It Mean to Encourage Friends? Encouraging friends is about being there when it counts, whether it's during a joyful celebration or one of the darker days when things just feel off. It means taking action to show your support, whether [...]

Marriage changes a lot of things, but it doesn’t mean you lose the strong female friendships you’ve built over the years. With new responsibilities, shifting priorities, and the evolving dynamics with friends who are single or married, staying connected with your closest friends can feel like a challenge. But it’s so worth it. Balancing these friendships with married life may take real effort, but it’s possible and rewarding. Whether it’s through more quality time, quick video calls, or even joining a book club, there are plenty of ways to keep those relationships strong. Sure, your social circle may change, but finding [...]

Friendship breakups can be just as tough as breaking up with a romantic partner. But sometimes, ending a friendship is the right thing for your emotional health and overall well-being. Whether it's a toxic friendship draining your energy or growing apart over time, making that decision isn't easy. You may even feel guilty about letting go, especially if you've shared good times or years of friendship. But recognising when a close friendship no longer serves you is a sign of self-respect and growth. And if you're unsure how to navigate this, you’re definitely not alone—many have faced the same difficult conversation before [...]

Divorce can feel like a storm. Upending every corner of your life. It’s isolating, even overwhelming. But it’s also a time when connection matters most. Female friendships can become lifelines. Offering understanding, strength, and a reminder that you’re not alone. Building these bonds isn’t just possible during this change chapter; it’s imperative. The Emotional Impact of Divorce Divorce isn't just the end of a marriage. It can shake the foundation of your world; including your emotions and your identity. For women, this shift can often trigger deep, overwhelming feelings that aren’t always easy to navigate. And understanding the emotional toll isn’t just helpful. [...]

Building strong female friendships is an essential part of personal growth and support. These relationships provide a safe space for vulnerability, laughter, and encouragement. But, forming and maintaining these connections takes time, effort, and intentional action. The benefits of friendship Having a supportive group of friends can make a huge difference in your day-to-day life. Not only do your friends provide you with companionship and fun times, but they also offer numerous benefits for your mental and emotional well-being. Here are some of the key advantages of having a supportive group of friends: Emotional support Boosts self-esteem Decreases stress Increases happiness Enhances mental health Promotes personal [...]

Being a good friend means creating moments that matter. This Friendship Bingo Card offers a fun way to reconnect, embrace meaningful activities, and add a little joy to your week. Whether you’re scheduling time with old friends or building new friendships, this game is a great tool for strengthening relationships and having fun. Designed as a fun ice breaker or for tackling simple friendship challenges, this bingo template is your guide to fostering connections in creative ways. Whether you want to do something spontaneous or intentionally plan a night out, we've got you covered. Why Friendship Bingo is a Great [...]

Gather your closest friends and celebrate the women who lift you up with a fun and unforgettable Galentine's party. Whether it’s over heart-shaped waffles, a round of karaoke, or a cozy movie night, this day is all about cherishing friendships. No matter your style, hosting a Galentine's Day celebration is the perfect opportunity to spread love and laughter while creating new memories. What is a Galentine's party? A Galentine's party celebrates friendship and love among women. It's typically held on or around February 13th, the day before Valentine's Day. The concept originated from the TV show Parks and Recreation in [...]

If you're looking to explore the theme of friendship in literature, there's no shortage of options. While many books on the topic are geared towards children and young adults, there are also plenty of options for adults looking to delve into friendship dynamics. Whether you're looking for a heartwarming tale of lifelong friendship or an exploration of the ups and downs of human relationships, there's sure to be a book that speaks to you. Exploring books about friendship for adults As an adult, the friendships you make are often vastly different from the ones you had as a child or even in [...]