For many girls, friendships are the cornerstone of their social and emotional world. When these relationships are in flux, such as during times of transition or after a fallout, girls can feel lost, helpless, and even hopeless. These “in-between” moments can be emotionally draining, leaving them unsure of how to move forward. This is where a friendship plan comes in. It serves as a roadmap to help girls regain confidence, refocus on what they can control, and take proactive steps toward building meaningful connections.
The Emotional Toll of Being In-Between Friends
Being in-between friends can feel isolating, especially for girls who place a high value on their social circles. Without a clear sense of belonging, they may experience anxiety, self-doubt, or even depression. Feelings of helplessness can take over as they focus on what they’ve lost rather than what they can build. A friendship plan offers hope and direction during these challenging times, giving girls a sense of agency and a framework to rebuild their social lives.
Why a Friendship Plan Matters
A friendship plan helps girls shift their focus from external circumstances—which are often beyond their control—to actions they can take to shape their social world. Instead of dwelling on why certain friendships didn’t work out, they can focus on creating opportunities for new connections. This shift in perspective is empowering and helps girls build resilience.
The Power of S.H.I.N.E.
One of the most empowering tools within a friendship plan is the concept of S.H.I.N.E., an acronym that helps girls focus on key traits that foster connection and confidence. Each letter stands for an essential quality:
- S – Supportive: Encourage girls to focus on being supportive in their interactions. Whether it’s offering a kind word or being a good listener, showing support is foundational for building strong friendships.
- H – Helpful: Small acts of kindness go a long way. Helping others creates positive connections and opens doors to deeper relationships.
- I – Interested: Demonstrating genuine interest in others—asking questions, remembering details, and showing curiosity—builds trust and deepens relationships.
- N – Non-Judgmental: Approaching others with an open mind and without criticism fosters a safe environment where people feel accepted and valued.
- E – Empathetic: Understanding and sharing the feelings of others strengthens bonds and shows that you care about their experiences.
By focusing on these principles, girls can take meaningful steps toward forming and maintaining friendships that are built on mutual respect and positivity.
Shifting the Focus to What They Can Control
One of the most powerful aspects of a friendship plan is its focus on controllable factors. Girls can’t control how others behave, but they can control how they show up. They can decide to be kind, open, and intentional about building connections. This mindset not only helps them navigate social challenges but also builds a sense of confidence and empowerment.
A Friendship Plan in Action
Imagine a girl who has recently drifted apart from her closest friend. She feels alone and uncertain about how to make new connections. With a friendship plan, she starts by identifying a few interests she’d like to explore, such as joining a book club or volunteering. She sets a goal to talk to at least one new person each week and writes down affirmations to remind herself of her worth. As she takes these small steps, she begins to see that she has the ability to shape her social world. Over time, she builds new connections and learns to trust her ability to navigate friendships.
Closing Thoughts
For girls who are in-between friends, a friendship plan is more than just a strategy—it’s a lifeline. It provides hope, direction, and the tools to focus on what they can control. By giving them a way forward, a friendship plan helps girls rebuild their confidence, foster new connections, and grow into resilient individuals who can navigate the complexities of social relationships with grace and determination. Let’s empower them to take charge of their social lives and remind them that every step forward is a step toward something better. Friendship plans are part of what we work on in one one coaching, if your daughter needs this type of support, do not wait: https://be.teen-wise.com/coaching
With Heart,
Coach Sheri
