There’s something incredibly special about friendships that grow and evolve with us, those deeply rooted connections between women who become a lifeline in adulthood.

As we get older, life becomes louder, faster, and sometimes lonelier. Between work, family, personal goals, and the never-ending to-do lists, friendships can quietly slip into the background. It’s not like when we were kids, we were seeing our friends every day at school or playing outside until dusk. Now, connection takes intention and effort.

My friend Ameera and I often joke that we have a “low-maintenance” friendship. But the truth is, even low-maintenance friendships still require the key word: maintenance. A late-night voice note, a spontaneous brunch, a quick check-in after a tough week, these small acts are what keep the bond alive. They remind us that we’re seen, supported, and loved, even in life’s busiest seasons.

I’ll be honest, I’m not the best at staying in touch. I have friends I barely speak to, but I love them deeply. For example, my best friend lives in New York, and we can go a while without FaceTiming each other, but no matter how much time passes, when we finally reconnect, it feels like the flame was quietly burning all along.  The energy is familiar, the conversations are effortless, and the space feels safe enough to be our most vulnerable, true selves. That’s the beauty of real friendship. It doesn’t demand constant presence, but it always offers unwavering support.

In adulthood, friendships don’t just happen. They are cultivated with vulnerability, patience, and the decision to show up for each other. They also require choosing the right people, the ones who uplift you, listen without judgment, and always have your best interest at heart. I know women whose friendships mean more to them than even some family relationships. Why? Because a good friend shows up with love, loyalty, and honesty, without conditions.

Some friendships are timeless, like childhood friends, cousins, or sisters, people who’ve walked with you through every stage of life. These are the gems you treasure and continue to nurture with time, love, and care.

Others fade gradually, and that’s okay too. People grow, they change, and they move on. Not all friendships are meant to last forever. Letting go is not a failure, it can be an act of peace and acceptance.

And then there are the beautiful new friendships that form in adulthood, built on shared values, mutual respect, and meaningful connection. These women may have entered your life recently, but somehow they feel like they’ve always belonged. It’s not about how long you’ve known someone, but how deeply they’ve impacted your life. They lift your spirit, fuel your growth, and bring joy to your everyday moments.

It’s never too late to make new friends. I know it can feel harder as we get older. People seem more set in their ways, life feels more complicated, and social circles appear already formed. But connection is always possible when you remain open to it. Join that class, attend that event, message that person you’ve been meaning to catch up with. Some of the most meaningful friendships start with a simple hello. Friendship has no age limit, it just takes a little courage and the willingness to be seen.

If you’ve been waiting for a sign, this is it. Nurture the friendships that matter. Find your people. Create your circle. Pour into the kind of sisterhood that expands and strengthens you. Because in adulthood, friendship isn’t just about fun times, it’s a sisterhood of survival, growth, and shared joy.