Why meaningful friendships are important for parental well-being with Dr. Miriam Kirmayer

Send us Fan MailDr. Miriam Kirmayer, clinical psychologist and friendship expert, joins Cindy to discuss the profound impact of friendships on our psychological well-being and how we can cultivate meaningful connections despite the challenges of parenthood.Here is what we discussed:• Social connections are one of the most powerful predictors of health, happiness, and longevity• The "over-under" phenomenon: we overestimate the effort relationships take and underestimate their benefits• Loneliness during parenthood is normal and serves as a signal of our need for connection• Even brief interactions (10 minutes) with friends can significantly impact our overall happiness• Different friendships serve different purposes – identify which ones provide restoration versus maintenance• Self-reflection helps determine which relationships align with your values and current needs• Vulnerability and imperfection create stronger connections than projecting a perfect image• Friendship skills are actually a constellation of different abilities that develop throughout life• Workplace connections are powerful drivers of wellbeing, productivity, and organizational success• When we prioritize our friendships, we model for our children that relationships are worth investing inWatch this on YouTube and share this episode:https://youtu.be/QNsB7iFxC5cLearn more from Dr. Kirmayer:https://www.miriamkirmayer.com/https://www.instagram.com/miriamkirmayer/Learn more about psychological well-being:https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8989714/pdf/nihms-1737166.pdfSupport the showJoin the Reflective Parent Book Club for only $9.99 for the year: https://reflectiveparentclub.circle.so/checkout/reflective-parenting-book-clubWatch my Tedx Talk on YouTube called The Over-Educated, Emotionally Underprepared Parent: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nDYJFY_9K9E&t=19sGrab my course for $99, The Emotionally Aware Parent: https://curiousneuron.com/reflective-parent-club/Doors open to join the next 8-week training (Starts Oct 12th) here https://curiousneuron.com/reflective-parent-club/