Hi Dear Friends,
Finally, it is the weekend that ushers us into December. It’s my favourite time of the year for so many reasons. Ideally I will be on holiday for the whole month, bless me. Hahahahahaha.
How have you been? How are your family and friends? I went to visit an old friend this week and had a chance to reflect on friendship as an investment.
When you love people and care for them, share your wisdom and resources, at some point, it does come back to you… Even if you have to ask for it. Some of us struggle with asking for support but give it so freely, it’s not healthy.
The holiday season is a whirlwind of celebrations, shopping, family gatherings, and endless to-do lists. Amid the hustle and bustle, nurturing meaningful relationships,can become an afterthought.
Yet, it is during these busy times that healthy relationships can provide a source of joy, comfort, and connection. Strengthening bonds with your friends doesn’t have to be a grand gesture—it can be simple, heartfelt, and meaningful.
HOW TO STRENGTHEN FRIENDSHIPS/ RELATIONSHIPS DURING HOLIDAYS
Here’s how you can prioritize and strengthen your relationships during the holidays.
1. Make Time for Shared Moments
The holidays are busy, but even short, intentional moments can deepen your connection with friends.
- Plan a Coffee Date: Meet for a quick cup of coffee to catch up and share holiday stories.
- Share a Tradition: Invite your friends to join in one of your holiday traditions or participate in theirs.
- Host a Mini Celebration: Even a casual get-together can become a cherished memory. Don’t over think it, food and music is enough.
2. Show Thoughtful Appreciation
Letting your friends know you value them is a powerful way to strengthen your bond.
- Send a Holiday Card: Include a heartfelt note expressing gratitude for their friendship.
- Small Gestures: Give a thoughtful gift, like a book they’ve wanted to read or a handmade token of appreciation.
- Random Acts of Kindness: Offer to help with their holiday errands or simply check in to ask how they’re doing.
3. Communicate Openly and Often
Good communication is essential, especially when schedules are tight.
- Stay Connected: Use quick texts, voice notes, or video calls to maintain your bond during hectic days. I do this often because I just can’t keep up often or get on a call, so I sometimes send long voice notes and I know people are afraid of voice notes but there is nothing like hearing the voice of a loving friend. I love it.
- Be Understanding: Acknowledge that everyone is busy and avoid taking unreturned calls or delayed responses personally. People are tired at the end of the year and you are not an exception, you too, rest!
- Check In: Ask about their holiday plans, challenges, or how you can support them. Releive pressure by not having expectations that are not communicated. If you have any, let them know. My friends know that I prefer 2 gifts in December not one. Don’t merge my birthday and Christmas please.
4. Collaborate on Holiday Tasks
Turning tasks into shared activities can make the holidays more enjoyable and create opportunities to bond.
- Gift Wrapping Together: Make an evening of wrapping gifts with festive music, snacks, and laughter.
- Holiday Baking Parties: Swap recipes and create treats while catching up.
- Shopping Buddies: Run errands or shop together to turn a chore into a shared adventure.
- Meet up at Christmas markets and have an overpriced warm drink
- Go for a walk together in between all the busy days
5. Practice Self-Care Together
Support each other in staying grounded and balanced during the chaos of the season.
- Relaxing Spa Day: Treat yourselves to a day of pampering, whether at home or at a spa. Book Spa breaks ahead of when you need it. December 21/22/27/28 is perfect
- Mindful Moments: Share a prayer and meditation session to de-stress and recharge.
- Accountability Partners: Encourage each other to prioritize rest, hydration, and healthy habits.
6. Celebrate Each Other
The holidays are a time to reflect on the people who matter most.
- Express Gratitude: Let your friends know how much they’ve enriched your life.
- Create a Tribute: Compile a photo collage or a short video highlighting your favorite moments together.
- Toast to Friendship: Raise a glass to sisterhood and the joy of having each other.
7. Plan for the New Year
The holidays don’t have to be the only time you focus on your friendships.
- Set Goals Together: Make plans for shared experiences in the coming year.
- Create a Tradition: Decide on an annual activity to keep your bond strong.
- Reflect on Growth: Celebrate how your sisterhood has grown and discuss ways to continue nurturing it.
Final Thoughts
The holidays can be hectic, but they’re also a time of connection and joy. Strengthening female friendships during this season is about prioritizing the relationships that bring meaning to your life.
Declutter the non essentials start new traditions that matter to you.
Whether through shared activities, thoughtful gestures, or open communication, investing in sisterhood will make the holidays even brighter.
Remember, amidst the holiday chaos, a little effort goes a long way in keeping the spirit of sisterhood alive.
Until next time, stay authentic,
Stay resilient, and continue to honour your needs.
Live wholeheartedly,
Amaka
2 Cor 3:2(MSG)
You yourselves are all the endorsement we need. Your very lives are a letter that anyone can read by just looking at you. Christ himself wrote it—not with ink, but with God’s living Spirit; not chiseled into stone, but carved into human lives—and we publish it.
