Navigating Friendships in Motherhood
Motherhood has a way of reshaping nearly everything in life and friendships are no exception. As we grow into this new role, the relationships we once leaned on can shift. Some friendships grow stronger, others naturally fade, and sometimes, we find ourselves needing new connections that understand where we are now.
If you’ve found yourself wondering how to maintain friendships or make new ones in motherhood, you are not alone. Let’s talk about why friendships feel different in this season and how to build meaningful ones that truly support you.
Why Friendships Change in Motherhood
Becoming a mother is one of the most personal and transformative shifts you can experience. Your schedule changes, your priorities shift, and often, your sense of self evolves. That doesn’t mean your old friendships don’t matter but it does mean they might take on a new shape.
Some friends will understand your new world, others may not, and that’s okay. Making peace with the natural evolution of relationships is part of growing into this season with kindness toward yourself and others.
The Loneliness No One Talks About
One of the hardest parts of motherhood can be how isolating it feels, even when surrounded by tiny humans all day. Adult conversation, deep connection, and feeling seen for more than just your role as mom matters.
If you’re feeling that loneliness, you’re not alone. Many women quietly share this experience, especially in the early years of raising children. It’s not a reflection of you or your ability to maintain friendships. It’s a natural part of life changing in big ways.
How to Find New Friendships in Motherhood
Finding new friends in this season is possible, even if it feels awkward at first. Here are some ways to gently build those new connections:
Start where you already are
School drop-offs, local parks, library story times, or fitness classes are filled with women who are likely feeling the same way you are. Sometimes a small comment or a warm smile is the first step.
Online communities matter
Don’t underestimate the value of online spaces. Groups tailored to local moms or communities like the one we’re building here at 13 Fridays can help you connect with others who share your stage of life and values.
Lead with honesty
When you meet someone new, it’s okay to say something like, “Making new friends as a mom feels a little awkward but I’d love to meet other women who get it.” Vulnerability often opens the door to real connection.
Give yourself grace
Not every potential friend will become a close one and that’s okay. The goal isn’t to collect people. It’s to build relationships that feel genuine and uplifting.
Holding Onto Yourself in the Process
Friendship is about more than just filling time. The right friendships help you feel like yourself again, not just a caretaker but a whole, vibrant woman. Finding women who see you in your fullness, who want to talk about both motherhood and your favorite books, beauty products, or career goals, is worth the effort.
At 13 Fridays, we believe in creating spaces that hold all of you. Whether you’re deep in the newborn phase or years into this motherhood journey, or even if you’re not a mom at all, you deserve friendships that lift you up, meet you where you are, and help you feel more at home in your own skin.
Let’s Build This Together
If you’re ready to connect with women who understand, stick around here. Join our community, explore our wellness resources, and follow along with us on social media. We’re here to bring beauty, comfort, and connection to every part of your life because you deserve that, in motherhood and beyond.
Looking for more? Subscribe to our newsletter or join the conversation with us on Instagram @13fridays_official for gentle resources, thoughtful style, and honest conversations.
You’re never as alone as you think and you don’t have to navigate this season by yourself.