💭 Are you gossiping?

Wednesday 7/2: Sponsored by Brad's Deals and Noom - Time for friends, gossip, outgrowing

Wednesday

"I attract friendships that feel safe and steady."

Welcome to Wednesday! Today, we're chatting about:

  • How to make time for friends

  • Should you be gossiping?

  • Summer deals for running shoes

  • If it’s worth saving your friendship

  • Build lasting habits this season

True or False?

Spending time with close friends can boost your immune system.

Scroll for the answer!

The Secret to Keeping Friends When Life Gets Busy

We all know life can get hectic, and sometimes, the first thing that falls to the back burner is spending quality time with friends. But even in the busiest seasons, staying connected with those you care about is crucial for your well-being. So, how do you make time for friendship when your schedule is packed?

Start by scheduling time in advance. It may sound unnecessary, but when life gets busy, having plans already on the calendar makes it easier to prioritize friends. Whether it’s a monthly coffee date or a simple walk in the park, setting time aside ensures that you make space for what matters.

Next, embrace multitasking. Who says you can’t combine friendship with other activities? You can catch up with a friend while cooking dinner, walking, or even during your daily commute. These “mini catch-ups” are just as meaningful and can fit seamlessly into your routine without the added pressure of planning a big event.

Another easy way to stay close is by incorporating friends into everyday tasks. Instead of waiting for the perfect opportunity to host a dinner party or go out, consider a casual get-together during activities you already do. Invite a friend to join you while running errands or to help you with meal prep. By integrating social time into your regular routine, you’re not adding more to your plate, but still making time to nurture important relationships.

By making friendship a priority, even in small ways, you’ll stay connected, no matter how busy life gets. So, grab your calendar, your phone, or your walking shoes, and find those moments to enjoy with the people who matter most.

Gossiping Isn’t Always Bad

We’ve all been there—chatting with friends, swapping stories about what’s happening in each other’s lives. And while many of us feel guilty about gossiping, there’s actually more to it than meets the eye. Far from being a negative habit, gossip can foster stronger relationships and even help us navigate social norms.

One of the most surprising benefits of gossip? It helps create social norms. When we share stories, especially those involving moral dilemmas or tough choices, we find a shared understanding of right and wrong. It’s a bonding experience that encourages trust and helps us learn more about each other’s values.

Gossip also serves as a warning system. It allows us to reflect on others’ mistakes without directly experiencing them, offering insights that help us avoid similar pitfalls. Plus, sharing stories, whether funny, cringey, or dramatic, can simply be entertaining, creating an easy way to feel connected and lighten up.

Of course, it’s essential to use gossip responsibly. When done with good intentions and in moderation, yapping can be a powerful tool for strengthening friendships, building trust, and finding community. So, the next time you find yourself talking about a friend’s latest drama, know it might be more beneficial than you think!

The Best Hoka Shoe Deals This Summer

Summer is here, and it’s the perfect time to keep your feet cool and comfortable with Hoka shoes. Whether you’re hiking, running, or simply enjoying the outdoors, Hoka’s lightweight design and superior cushioning offer unmatched comfort. And thanks to Brad’s Deals, we’ve found the top discounts so you can enjoy all of the benefits without breaking the bank.

Thank you to Brad’s Deals for sponsoring Note To Self. 

Is It Time to Let Go of a Friendship?

As time passes, friendships evolve, and sometimes, they naturally fade. It’s not always dramatic; often, it’s a slow drift. If you’ve ever felt like a relationship isn’t what it once was, but weren’t sure if it’s time to move on, you’re not alone.

One sign you've outgrown a friendship is when your conversations start feeling forced. If your chats have lost their natural flow, and instead of catching up, you’re both struggling for topics, it might be time to reassess the bond. The same goes for when your lifestyles just don’t align anymore. Perhaps you’re focusing on family, while your friend is still all about late-night adventures.

Another clue? If you’re no longer willing to work through issues that once mattered, the relationship may not be worth fighting for anymore. And, when you stop reaching out or don’t feel excited about the connection, that’s often a sign that the friendship’s expiration date has come.

It’s okay to let go of a friendship that no longer fits your life. With mutual understanding or a conversation, it’s possible to part ways gracefully. And remember, some friendships may circle back when the timing is right.

Ready for Change? Noom Helps You Lose Weight and Keep It Off!

Noom combines psychology, technology, and expert coaching to help you make healthier choices and reach your weight loss goals. With a personalized plan, tracking tools, and constant support, Noom helps you stay motivated and consistent long-term.

Features that make Noom stand out:

  • Food logging with 1 million+ items

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  • 1,000+ interactive lessons on weight loss, mindful eating, and more

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  • Community support through Circles

  • Water, activity, and health app tracking

  • Connect your devices (Fitbit, Garmin, and more)

  • Maintenance Mode to keep your weight steady

  • Optional 1-on-1 coaching sessions with a health coach See why Noom is trusted by millions and featured in The New York Times, Shape, Forbes Health, and more. Take this quick quiz to get started!

Thank you to Noom for sponsoring Note To Self.

The Pause

Before you go, take a small pause from your day with this tip brought to you by The Note To Self editors.

Summer Recipe: Caprese with a twist. Use fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and nectarines. Add basil, olive oil, and flaky salt. It’s summer on a plate.

Wellness Round-Up

Parting Thoughts

  • ✅ True or False: True. Strong social ties are linked to better physical health and lower stress levels.

  • đŸ™‹đŸŒâ€â™€ïž Snapshot Of The Day: We'd love to see moments from our readers’ lives that they are proud of! If you recently accomplished an achievement, experienced a joyful moment, or are proud of a picture you have taken, be sure to capture it on camera and send it to us for a chance to be featured next week! 

  • 💭 Final Self-Care Thoughts for Today: It’s okay if friendships change. People grow, seasons shift, and staying close sometimes takes a little effort—and a lot of grace.

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