The Grief That Comes With Outgrowing A Friendship
Let's normalize ending friendships that have run its course
Friendships are an integral part of our lives. They can be a source of support, joy, and comfort. However, as we grow and change, so do our friendships. Sometimes, we outgrow our friendships, and this can be a painful experience. It is natural to feel a sense of grief when we lose a friend. But how do we manage these feelings of grief?
Here are four ways to manage the grief that comes with outgrowing friendships:
Acknowledge your feelings: The first step in managing any emotion is to acknowledge it. It is okay to feel sad, angry, or frustrated when a friendship ends. Take some time to reflect on your feelings and allow yourself to experience them. Don't try to suppress or ignore your emotions, as this can prolong the grieving process.
Practice self-care: When we experience grief, it can be easy to neglect our own needs. However, practicing self-care is essential in managing our emotions. Take care of your physical and emotional health by eating well, exercising, and getting enough sleep. It is also important to engage in activities that bring you joy and help you relax, such as reading, listening to music, or practicing mindfulness.
Seek support: Talking to someone about your feelings can be helpful in managing grief. Reach out to a trusted friend or family member, or consider talking to a therapist. Support groups can also be a valuable resource, as they provide a safe space to share your experiences and connect with others who are going through a similar situation.
Reframe your perspective: Outgrowing a friendship can be a painful experience, but it can also be an opportunity for growth. Instead of focusing on what you have lost, try to reframe your perspective and focus on what you have gained. Think about the lessons you have learned from the friendship, the memories you have shared, and the ways in which you have grown as a person. This can help you find closure and move forward.
Outgrowing friendships can be a difficult experience, but it is a natural part of life. It is important to acknowledge your feelings, practice self-care, seek support, and reframe your perspective. Remember that it is okay to grieve, but also know that there is hope for healing and growth. With time and self-care, you can come out the other side of this experience with newfound wisdom and strength.
This Saturday, I will be hosting an intimate book launch experience in LA. Grab your ticket and join me for a meet and greet, book signing, light bites, and a conversation on building healthy relationships!
Mindfl Things to Engage With:
Listen to my conversation with Dr. Judith Joseph on what it’s like to live with Anhedonia:
So timely as I grieve the ending of one close friendship and the pause of another. I have noticed that I have done better with acknowledging my feelings and reframing my perspective which were previously difficult for me to do.