7 Ways to Invest In Female Friendships + the Benefits

7 Ways to Invest In Female Friendships + the Benefits

09.15.2023 - By: Anastasia Barbuzzi

I recently read a newsletter from Erin Lowry of Broke Millennial that talked about the importance of investing in friendships, and it really hit home. Having just returned from my friend's wedding on the East Coast, with whom I've maintained a relationship through university and several moves, I felt extra grateful for all the special ladies in my life.

This excerpt from Erin's newsletter summarizes her feelings:

"In hindsight, I wish I'd given myself the financial breathing room to indulge and invest more in friendships in my early to mid-twenties.

This is one reason it's important to give yourself a Fun Fund. This is a savings account that allows you to just opt-in and say yes sometimes. You can put a modest amount out of each paycheck, but then you have a pressure release available, even when you're hyper focused on a financial goal.

Investing in relationships matter. Of course, it doesn't always take money to show up for friends, but sometimes it does take money to partake in activities that are important to the people that are important to you."

Her words reminded me of the invaluable female friendships I've cultivated. These relationships span not only my local community but also around the world, and they hold an exceptional place in my heart. These bonds have endured and transcended many boundaries beyond time and space and enriched my life in countless ways.

Even more intriguing is the realization that the skills we employ to nurture friendships can translate into effective money management. There's research on how the skills we use to maintain our female friendships can translate into how we invest, and let's not forget how much more successful we are in all aspects of life when we surround ourselves with people who motivate, inspire, encourage, and support us.

With fall rearing its head and winter around the corner in North America, a time when we often find ourselves spending more hours indoors and less time engaging in outdoor activities, there's no better moment to reflect on the importance of investing in our friendships, or rather, think about how we will in these chilly, sometimes isolating seasons.

Remember: Investing in friendships doesn't always have to be financial. It doesn't always require a money transaction, but it does require a social and emotional exchange. Read on for some meaningful ways to nurture your connections.

7 Ways to Invest in Your Friendships

1. Make Time: Life can get hectic, but carving out time for your friends is essential. Whether it's a coffee date, a phone call, or a weekend getaway, prioritize spending quality time together.

I know how easy it is to forget about contacting a friend. It can easily slip your mind when you're distracted by everything else, so set reminders on your phone or your calendar to send a quick text or DM.

2. Remember Important Dates: Birthdays, anniversaries, and special occasions matter. A simple heartfelt message on these days can strengthen your bond. It's greatly appreciated!

3. Go Deep in Conversations: While small talk is helpful when breaking the ice, why not try engaging more meaningfully? Share your dreams, fears, and aspirations, and ask your girlfriend about theirs. In these vulnerable moments, friendships deepen, and people feel seen or genuinely appreciate being asked.

4. Share Laughter: Laughter is a powerful bonding tool. Send a meme, a quick message, a photo of you together, or reminisce about a cherished memory to brighten someone's day.

5. Embrace Differences: This one isn't easy! Friendships aren't always smooth sailing. It's okay to have disagreements. The key is to approach these differences with respect and empathy. Agree to disagree when necessary.

6. Thoughtful Gifts: While gift-giving can be a meaningful way to show appreciation (and nail someone's love language or satisfy your own), set a budget that aligns with your financial goals. The thought behind the gift often matters more than the price tag, and you shouldn't stress about a purchase that's supposed to spark joy. Set an amount before you shop and stick to it. 

7. Vary Communication Styles: Everyone has their unique way of staying connected. Some people love frequent texts, while others prefer periodic catch-ups (but make that clear so no one feels disrespected).

Understanding and respecting each other's communication styles can be sanity-saving (read: a trillion text notifs). If you don't talk every day, it doesn't diminish the strength of your friendship, and that's one of the most important lessons I've learned over time, especially in adulthood. Some of my closest friends live in entirely different provinces or countries, yet our sisterhood is strong.  

The Final Word

Overall, friendships are invaluable assets that require investment and care. The personal growth and support they can provide are immeasurable (I know how much I've benefited from them!). If you need a metaphor, consider your female friendships priceless investment pieces. 

Shoutout to my female friends that I've had the pleasure and honour of maintaining some of the most loving, honest, inspiring, and incredible relationships. Jackie, Alyssa, Riley, Ruth, Alexia, Avery, and Kristen, you guys mean the world to me. I love you so much! We keep on pushin' on surviving!

Lastly, I encourage you to share this with a beloved gal pal you want to honour or someone who needs to hear it today. It might be the start of building an even stronger relationship together! 

Thoughts? Questions? Leave them in the comments below!

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