“I only hang out with guys because thereā€™s less drama” is something we’ve all heard before, and I’ve never heard anything more untrue. There are many trials and tribulations that come with being a woman, so why wouldn’t you want to befriend other women who can relate to these problems and experiences? As women, we face universal challenges such as hearing misogynistic remarks and being catcalled by men.
We’ve also all been there when we start our period but don’t have a tampon on hand. We can all relate to these universal experiences because we’ve undoubtedly experienced them more than once. It’s so valuable to connect with other women and build meaningful connections, as I have grown greatly through my strong bonds with friends.
Girlhood is getting ready with your girls for a night out, but it’s also healing a friend’s heart that you did not break. Girl friendships are so impactful in our lives; my friends boost my confidence and provide me with a sense of belonging. My friends have always supported me. I’ve never felt judged by them, even in my most vulnerable moments. Girlhood involves not just binge-watching reality shows and rom-coms but also helping your friend zip up their dress. However, it’s also much more than that. Having girl friendships is empowering and the women in my life make me feel confident, inspired, and motivated.
I can be myself around my friends, share my deepest struggles, and express my opinions because they are my safe space. A significant portion of my friendships have been long-term. I have known one friend for nine years and two other friends for seven. I believe in creating long-lasting friendships, especially with the friends I grew up with in my teenage years.
Female friendships are beautiful, and every minute I spend with my friends makes me enjoy life even more. In her book Everything I Know About Love, Dolly Alderton sums it up well when she writes, “I’ve learned nearly everything I know about love from my long-term friendships with women.” I wholeheartedly agree with this, as I believe that the first love we experience outside of our family is with our friends.
My first romantic relationship began when I was 20 years old, but it doesn’t mean I had never experienced love before. This form of love differs from romantic love, and I have been fortunate to experience it. This love may lack the romance and passion of dating, but it possesses the same level of commitment and care.Ā This love includes singing and dancing to Taylor Swift in our living rooms, sleepovers while gushing about our celebrity crushes, and deep intimate discussions about our fears and dreams.
I succeed in life due to all the women who encourage and inspire me to pursue my dreams. As women, we should work to shatter the myth that women are catty and full of drama. My friendships with my girls have been one of the best things that have happened to me.
Want to see more HCFSU? Be sure to like us on Facebook and follow us on Instagram, Twitter, TikTok, and Pinterest!