Mel Robbins, renowned author and motivational speaker, has shared insights into the evolving landscape of adult friendships. According to Robbins, the dynamics of forming and maintaining friendships undergo significant changes as people enter their twenties. This transition period often leads to challenges, given that individuals are on different life timelines and the rules of friendship have shifted.
"The rules of friendship completely change when you hit your twenties." – Mel Robbins
During childhood, individuals naturally formed bonds due to constant proximity to peers of similar ages. However, in adulthood, the scenario is quite different. A striking 58% of Americans now reside far from their childhood communities, impacting the ease of meeting and connecting with new friends. Robbins emphasizes the importance of focusing on three pillars to cultivate adult friendships: who is close to you, what they are going through, and how much you two have in common.
These pillars are crucial because when an adult friendship fades, it usually results from one or more of these elements dissolving. Robbins cautions that forcing these connections is not effective. Instead, genuine friendships thrive when they naturally align with these three core aspects.
"You can have fantastic energy with somebody, and then if you decide you're not drinking anymore, the energy is off. If you decide to get really focused on fitness, the energy is off. If you have very different political beliefs, the energy is off." – Mel Robbins
Robbins shared her thoughts on Jay Shetty's podcast "On Purpose," where she delved deeper into the complexities of adult friendships. Her advice is clear: to continue making friends as one gets older, individuals should focus on those geographically close, understand what they are currently experiencing, and identify shared interests or values. These steps help navigate the often-complicated terrain of adult social circles.
In addition to her insights on friendships, Mel Robbins is actively promoting her new online course titled "How to Use AI to Be More Successful at Work" on CNBC. The course aims to equip participants with essential skills for leveraging artificial intelligence in professional settings. It is available for pre-registration at a 30% discount with the code EARLYBIRD, a promotional offer valid until February 11, 2025.