Friendships

Growing up isn't easy. When you're in your twenties you experience a plethora of changes some may include: graduating from college, moving away from home, getting your first "big kid" job, getting married, having kids etc. There are many different stages that everyone goes through. Some experience it quicker than others. During these changes it can feel like your relationships with your friends are changing too. Which let's face it, it isn't always easy!

Graduating from college

College was one of the best times of my life. I was in a sorority, joined student organizations, loved my major, studied abroad & had many great experiences. College spoiled me! I am not going to lie when I graduated I was shocked & wanted to run away from real life. It was scary.... nobody prepared me for this! I went from sitting in a classroom, mingling with my friends & having little responsibility to sitting at a desk from 9-5pm. What was this?

Not to mention when you graduate your friends start going in different directions. I know I wasn't prepared for that. To be quite honest I didn't know how to prepare myself for the changes that were coming. I remember the night before I moved to DC I was in my room talking to Amber; we were trying to comprehend what our lives would look like.

Moving Away from Home

When I moved away from home to head to DC I knew I would have to figure out a way to keep in touch with my friends. Some moved away & others stayed in Salt Lake City. Being across the country isn't the easiest but I knew I would figure out a way to stay in touch. Sometimes I get homesick & the one thing that keeps me grounded is being able to call my friends after a tough day. Moving away taught me a lesson about my friendships, some were there to stay & others had been lost. But that's ok!

Getting a "Big Girl" Job
Working full time is an adjustment. It's hard to keep in touch all the time when your working 40 or more hours a week. Sometimes the last thing you want to do is get on the phone & talk for an hour. Your friends might also be working a completely different schedule than you which adds a whole other complication to keeping in touch. I have learned that if I find myself in a slump or not wanting to talk to my friends from home after work that I should  just do it anyway. It always makes me feel better! I love to hear about their days & connect again.


Getting Married

I am in this stage right now, a lot of my friends are getting ready to tie the knot. How exciting for them! I love seeing my friends happy. When this happens don't forget you're still their friend & even though they may be spending more time with their significant other they still care about you. This makes your friendship stronger because you make time for each other & ultimately get to see the best of both worlds for your friendship.

Growing in & out of relationships is totally normal. Knowing who your good friends are & keeping in touch with them is so important. They will always be there for you through the different stages of your life. Your friendships will grow more than you ever expected. Sometimes the growing pains will hurt & sometimes they will be the happiest.

How have you dealt with friendships changing? I would love to hear!

Xo,

Emily