New Year's Resolutions: how about FRIENDSHIP resolutions?

Ah, New Year’s resolutions. If you believe the Internet, it seems there’s a (strong) movement to give resolutions the middle finger this year. I’ve lost count of the number of posts with “screw new year, new me” sentiments. Apparently lots of folks are saying, “I”m ok being me.”

So if there’s no new year’s resolutions to be “a better version of yourself” what are you resolving?

Because I have a suggestion:

How about friendship resolutions...or friendship goals for 2026?

If you’re a GenXer like me, chances are you’re busy, overworked, overtired but a little lonely. You miss hanging out with friends and just having plain old fun.

So how about resolving to work on some friendship goals this year?

Here’s some suggestions on what “friendship resolutions” might look like:

• touch base with your best friend once a week
• getting to know some of the women you meet at networking events. How about setting up some coffee dates?
• commit to regularly texting friends just to say “hi, been thinking about you”
• your neighbours kept asking you to have a drink on the weekend. Invite them for a backyard glass of wine this summer
• there’s a couple you and your husband really like. Ask them over for dinner. With a firm date. Then put it on your calendar.
  
  
  

Now if we’re talking “friendship GOALS” then there’s work to be done....and not just wishing. Because you know that friendships don’t just happen. They take work-kindda like marriage.

And if that’s the case, then you will have to do some work if you want your friendship outlook to get better. If you want specific friendships to really develop and grow, then you need to make plans. And act on them.

For instance, you may have a vague notion that you should spend more time with your sister. Or your cousin. Then it’s probably a good idea to schedule some dates to have dinner with them.

Maybe it’s just as simple as signing up for an aquafit class together. That way you know you’ll see her once a week for 3 months.

The point is that it’s important to figure out if your friendships are important to you. And then take action to make it happen. And... you’ll have to make the first move.

Yes I know “making the first move” is awkward. Especially when you’re in your 50’s. But I can guarantee you this: if you are intentional about making friendships a priority, you will be amply rewarded.