EP202: Bestie or Bust? Fearlessly Facing Our Friendships

Bestie or Bust? Fearlessly Facing Our Friendships

The “F WORD” is: FRIENDSHIPS

Fearlessly Facing Friendships as we age. Friendship expert Danielle Bayard Jackson brings clarity to the often complex world of platonic relationships, sharing research-backed strategies for developing healthier connections in our increasingly isolated society. Her decade of work reveals how quality friendships directly impact our physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing, giving us scientific reasons to prioritize relationships.

• 40% of people report not having a best friend, creating pressure that leads to “secret auditioning” of potential candidates
• The “bestie model” can cause us to miss valuable connections that don’t fit our perfect friendship package
• When you’re new somewhere, see it as an advantage – people enjoy helping newcomers and sharing recommendations
• “Expect to be liked” – research shows those who anticipate acceptance typically receive it through their confident behaviors
• Digital connections should supplement, not replace, in-person friendships
• Reciprocity issues can be addressed by recognizing different contribution styles and communicating needs directly
• We naturally replace about half our friends every seven years
• Signs it’s time to end a friendship: feeling depleted after interactions, disliking who you become around them, fear of being authentic
• Introverts can honor their energy needs while still building meaningful connections