It’s important to enjoy and adore the time that we spend with our significant others and of, course, any kids we have with them. This is our family unit, after all, and we all have to do our bit to ensure that our family is happy and cohesive. But that doesn’t mean that our relationship with our loved ones and kids should come at the expense of our relationships with our friends. In our teen and college years we seem to have all the time in the world to spend with friends but when we get older, get jobs and have kids we tend to become more insular. It’s not because we’ve become inherently antisocial, we just have way less time and energy than we did in our youth. Nonetheless, while free time might be harder to come by, it’s vitally important that we make time.

Everybody needs a little time away

They say that absence makes the heart grow fonder and familiarity breeds contempt. While both may be a little bit of an exaggeration it’s psychologically necessary for us to have a little time away from bae every once in a while. Time apart from our SO gives us the opportunity to establish ourselves as individuals rather than through the lens of our relationship with our partner or through the lens of motherhood. It’s important that we get some time to spend as us rather than as someone’s Mum or someone’s wife. Even if you’re quiet and introverted by nature it’s important to have some time spent with friends alongside your precious you time. It allows us to be more assertive, confident and self-assured.

But while time with the girls is important, it’s just as important to make sure that you use this time well.

Treat yourself

A spot of retail therapy with the girls is not only a lot of fun, it’s empowering too. It’s great to shop for things that make you look and feel beautiful while surrounded by supportive friends who will be able to give you the confidence and assurance you want when making your purchases and not (let’s face it) a bored partner looking up in cheerful indifference from their phone and kids who aren’t quite sure where they are and know only that they need a wee.

Challenge yourself

It’s important in all aspects of life to live outside of our comfort zones. It’s when we challenge ourselves that we assert our personalities and make memories that stick. While getting together over a bottle of Prosecco is all well and good, a break from the norm is more conducive to making lasting memories that will make you smile for years to come. Try something like an Escape Room where you and your friends will be locked in a room and will have to work together to solve puzzles and find your way out. It’s challenging fun and engaging but also offers you a chance to…

Laugh till you cry

They say that laughter is the best medicine and it’s absolutely true. Laughter can relieve stress and improve immune function as well as making us feel young and alive. Whatever you do, whether it’s trading memories over a few drinks, catching a funny show or watching some open mic stand up comedy, create opportunities for you and your girls to laugh.

How do you spend time with your girlfriends?

*Collaborative post.