Your friendships aren't just good for your soul; they're medicine for your body. In this week's episode, Jo explores why the connections you nurture in midlife can add years to your life. From the surprising science behind why quality relationships matter more than career success or wealth, to practical ways you can keep your friendships strong (and how to navigate when they change), this conversation reminds you that friendship isn't a luxury, it's essential.

Friendships are one of the most powerful health investments

The Harvard Study of Adult Development discovered that people most satisfied with their relationships at age 50 were the healthiest at age 80.

It's completely normal for friendships to evolve and sometimes fade

We replace about half our social circle every seven years. Friends come for a reason, a season, or a lifetime. If a friendship has quieted or ended, give yourself permission to grieve and stay open to what comes next.

Making new friends in midlife is different, but deeply rewarding

Midlife friendships often grow from shared values and interests through travel, wellness events, online communities, or shared conversations. You're not too old to find your people; you're simply choosing them more intentionally now.

Consistency and small actions transform your connections

You don't need grand gestures, rather deliberate moments. Treat connection like a non-negotiable appointment. This week, reach out to one friend, be honest if distance has grown, show up for the in-between moments, and celebrate what matters.

When a friendship falters or ends, approach it with honesty and compassion

If you want to repair it, open with care: "I've noticed some distance between us, and I miss how things used to be." If it's time to let go, do it with gratitude. You can hold appreciation for a friendship while releasing it with grace.

Reflection Prompts

As you think about your own friendships, consider journaling on these questions:

Who has been in my life the longest, and what do I treasure about that friendship?

Which friendships energise me, and which ones drain me?

What friendships have I grieved or let go of, and what did I learn from them?

Where might I open myself to new connections?

What's one small action I could take this week to nurture a friendship that matters?

How do I want to be remembered as a friend?

Moving Forward

This week, choose one person you haven't caught up with lately and reach out. Whether it's a coffee, a walk, a Zoom call, or a message, make that connection. Your friendships are good for your heart, your health, your longevity, and your sense of belonging in midlife. Walk alongside the people who lift you up, who remind you who you are, and who see every version of you and choose to stay.

Join Dr Sian Hebron and me on Saturday, 8 November, for the Shifting Tides event at Noosa Springs Spa Resort.

It's an intimate and supportive gathering where you'll gain valuable medical insights, practical frameworks, and a genuine connection with other women navigating this stage of life.

You can get your tickets at https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/shifting-tides-your-guide-to-menopause-midlife-whats-next-tickets-1681453666179?utm-campaign=social&utm-content=attendeeshare&utm-medium=discovery&utm-term=listing&utm-source=cp&aff=ebdsshcopyurl

Connect with me

• Book your 20-minute connection call https://calendly.com/jo--138/20min?month=2025-07 

• RE-IMAGINE: A personalised 1:1 six-week mentoring programme https://www.joclarkcoaching.com/work-with-me 

• Share your journey with me by sending me a message on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/joclarkcoaching/ 

• LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/joclarkcoaching/⁠

• Email me your success story at jo@joclarkcoaching.com. 

Remember, there's so much untapped brilliance in midlife women. You are wise, strong, and talented. You just need the space to hear yourself and the courage to act on what you know.

The second half of your life can be even better than the first.