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Friendship in Your 20s, 40s, and Beyond: What Changes and What Stays the Same

2025-03-01T15:15:48+00:00

By Blogger 3

Friendships are some of the best things that exist on earth, and they provide us with support, laughter, and a sense of belonging. Yet, as we experience different stages in life, how we initiate, maintain, and appreciate friendships also shifts. We have carefree nights during our 20s, and later, we are juggling responsibilities at our 40s and beyond. Friendships shift through stages, yet there are specific aspects that remain constant.Let’s take a closer look at friendship at different life stages and explore how it transforms and what stays the same.

Photo by RDNE Stock project from Pexels

Friendships in Your 20s: The Era of ExplorationYour 20s are a time of self-discovery. You’re figuring out your career, relationships, and overall direction in life, and friendships often reflect this dynamic energy.What changes?

Friendships are largely situational—you bond with classmates, coworkers, and people in your social circles.
There is an emphasis on quantity over quality, with large friend groups and frequent social outings.
Friends often move in and out of your life due to career shifts, relocations, and changing priorities.

What doesn’t change?

A need for companionship and shared experiences.
The desire for deep, rich relationships, regardless of how long they take to develop.

Photo by Kindel Media from Pexels

Friendship in Your 40s: Quality Over QuantityWhen you are in your 40s, life becomes more organised. You could be working, raising children, or managing other obligations. This means friendships become more intentional and meaningful.

What changes?

You care about quality over quantity, keeping a small group of close friends, instead of having a big social group.
Friendships require more effort—everyone is busy, so arranging get-togethers requires planning.
You value emotional support and not superficial connections.

What remains the same?