If you’re seeking a healthy and happy life now that the kids are grown, then you’ll want to pay attention to important research that came out of Harvard led most recently by Dr. Robert Waldinger. This 85 year study shows that the most important factor for not only happiness but also a long life is connection and community.

We’re delving into the profound subject of forging friendships after your children have left the nest in this episode of Life after Kids. We dissect the intricacies of forming and maintaining friendships at this stage of life, and explore the common challenges women face in building relationships post-child rearing.

Key Takeaways:

• Overcoming Judgment: Avoid being overly critical when meeting new people; understand that diverse friendships enrich life.
• Embracing the Layers of Friendship: Recognize that different friends serve different roles and purposes in your life.
• Effort is Key: Cultivate friendships proactively by putting yourself out there—even if it's uncomfortable at first.
• Utilizing Community Resources: Engage in local classes, groups, or clubs to expand your social circle.
• Technology and Online Communities: Don't overlook the power of online connections in today's digital age.

Listen to the full episode of Life after Kids for analogies and personal stories, as we shed light on the reality that friendship dynamics change over time and how essential it is to put in the effort to cultivate new relationships. You’ll also get strategic tips on leveraging community resources, joining new activities, and even utilizing technology to foster meaningful connections. With this week’s episode, you’ll gain more depth into the art of cultivating meaningful friendships. Be sure to stay connected for more insightful discussions

RESOURCES:

The What’s My Purpose Quiz

The Life after Kids Membership Community

Planning a Girls Trip or Night Out Podcast Episode


Timestamp Summary
| 0:00 | Navigating Friendships and New Beginnings
| 3:15 | Making Friends at Different Life Stages
| 5:58 | Navigating Friendships Through Shared Values and Social Layers
| 11:43 | The Importance of Fostering Friendships Amid Life Changes
| 15:45 | Balancing Relationships: Three Minute, Three Hour, and Three Week Friends
| 17:01 | The Importance of Relationships for Happiness and Longevity
| 17:46 | Practical Tips for Building Friendships and Social Connections
| 23:36 | The Importance of Genuine Connections Over Material Wealth
| 27:21 | Building Friendships and Connections After Kids

Enjoy the show, and we hope you learn a little bit more about living a fulfilling, vibrant, and meaningful Life after Kids!

If you like what you hear please rate and review the podcast, hit subscribe, and pass it along to a friend.

Making tomorrow even better than today,

Dr. Brooke and Dr. Lynne


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