Why Don't You Have More Women Friends?

By Lori Chance

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I’m quite sure you’ve heard someone say, “I don’t have girl friends, I prefer to hang out with men.” Why do you think women say this so often? This is a stereotype that reduces your networking contacts, potential friendships, and the emotional stimulation that we need in our lives.

Those who claim that they don’t want to be friends with other women say so for the following reasons:

● pettiness
● jealousy
● gossip
● primping
● close-mindedness

If we take a look inside ourselves, it is quite possible that we will find a little bit of that list in each of us. We don’t want to understand that we are petty, jealous, and gossipy but it’s something that most people are capable of. Sometimes it’s not possible to see yourself as clearly as you think you see the other person. It’s quite possible that you may even be correct about the other person. Can you think of a positive thing that can potentially become of bringing yourself and another person to a low point?

Being able to have women friends will help you to understand that you have someone by your side that can empathize with what you are going through. Try talking to a man about husband worries, or even fertility issues. The are certain to glass over like a stunned dear in headlights. These things are better handled by a girl friend. A friend who will stand by you when you need her, and offer understanding and support.

If you happen to be one of the people that states, “I don’t have girlfriends, I get along better with men,” have you thought of all the other women who have said the same exact thing? You are not alone. Imagine if all of these women were to get together and connect. There would be a very strong bond of friendship.

It’s time to step outside of your comfort zone and find the things that you are looking for in a friend. It may seem difficult to do, but it’s worth it. If you are interested in art or music, take some time to go to a theater or a concert. If you are a bookworm or a writer, join a book club or writers group. This will introduce you to other people, both men and women, who enjoy the activities that you do.

It’s been ingrained in you since you were in school to not like other girls. You didn’t want to like them because they like the same boy that you do, or they have higher grades. You are a grown woman now, and life is unfolding before you. Grab your friendships and they will help you bloom into the person you want to be. Enjoy friends who will stand by you when you have problems in your marriage. Enjoy the friend who will positively impact your life. Take comfort in a friend who will be there for you when you have goals and ambitions.

Make sure that you don’t allow the stigmas you dealt with in high school affect the life you want to lead. Be better than the gossip you dislike. Don’t allow your own petty judgments to hurt your future. Ensure that you open your heart to new beginnings and new friends. This will enable your life to bloom into a garden of hope.