Six Types of Women You Should Have in Your Life By Your 30s
I recently had the pleasure of hanging out at Tang & Biscuit in Richmond. I spent the evening with three women. We learned shuffleboard. We tried new drinks. We grubbed on classic food like wings, tots, and sliders. We laughed. We made a bit of a mess. We hatched some plans. We told each other how much we liked each other. The compliments were practically raining.
It got me thinking about the kinds of women I have in my life now. Through my many evolutions due to death, love, betrayal and profession, I’ve kindly asked certain women to leave my life and chosen new additions very, very carefully. I’m so honored and proud to be surrounded by the women I am today. I put together a list of each type I feel like everyone woman should have in their respective circles. (You’ll notice I left out family because we all know how important that is to me already.)
Let’s start with an easy one:
The Business Bud
Whether you work in an office or you’re an entrepreneur, having someone to turn to to talk through a new process, a new product, a new concept is incredibly valuable. Look for someone who knows your trade and can talk your language. Ideally they are also a connector and cheerleader for you, too. Your career matters. Breathe some love into it.
The Mentee
Just as it is important to have someone to look up to, it’s always been validating to me to have someone to pass my knowledge and wisdom to. It reminds me that I am valuable, it calms me knowing I can help one other woman become a better version of themselves, and it makes me smile knowing I made a positive impact when someone else may not have. I love working with younger women in whatever way it happens. I’ve willingly taken on interns in full-time roles and as an entrepreneur, spoken to college groups. For example, I am set to take the stage at VCU’S Her Campus event on February 24 here in Richmond. I’m looking forward to making more connections with young women here.
The Mentor
I’ve had a few great mentors over the years. They often come from professional settings. Honestly, not all of them have been women, either. They’re mostly leaders and managers I’ve been drawn to. They obviously have a lot of professional guidance and advice to offer, but they fill other shoes for me, too. I’ve learned so many life hacks, communication skills, and even healthy living guidance from mentors. Women like this are a great reminder that work is just a part of life. Genuine connections with other people are what really make us all a more productive and happier community.
The No Judgements Friend
Who ya gonna call when you did something shady and need advice? How about when you’re interested in doing something a little evil? Maybe you have gas and need help getting rid of it. Whatever the reason, you need someone you can tell ANYTHING and not be embarrassed or feel judged. One of six women in your life should fill this role. Sometimes they’ll encourage a bit of bad behavior. Other times, they’ll knock you back to your senses. You need both. You can’t get either if you don’t have someone you can keep it really, unfortunately real with sometimes.
The Down Bitch
You need a “yes” girl. This your travel and party companion. This woman helps keep your energy, enthusiasm, and curiosity up. When you need to let off some steam, she is ready to go on a road trip, go see a movie, or whatever your favorite past times are. Women like this are low-maintenance and laid back. They know how to handle a variety of situations because they’ve been there, done that. They can handle adventure.
The Hometown Girls
I had coffee this morning with a friend I’ve known for more than 20 years. We don’t live in the same town. Our lives are very different. She lives back in my hometown with her sweet hubby and new baby boy and has a killer job she’s been working for years. We don’t get to connect but a few times a year in person. Every time, it’s easy, though. I have a handful of women like this in my life. We respect each other’s choices and remember our roots together. Even if the past was a bit painful, there are parts that are still so beautiful. These people remind me of that all the time. It grounds me and motivates me.
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Need a New Way to Hang?
Sometimes you need a new idea for bonding, catching up, and brainstorming. Coffee, happy hour, and dinner don’t always cut it. A night of games at Tang & Biscuit in Scott’s Addition fit the bill for us. There wasn’t a pool hall vibe. It was clean, classic and even upscale with its selection of cocktails and food. The staff was more than helpful. Check it out here.
Other ideas include mani/pedis, a hike, a spa day, and more…
Thank you to all the women in my life.
