Episode Details

Have you ever felt like you're always the friend who checks in, makes the effort and remembers the little things, but sometimes wonder if anyone notices what you need? Or maybe you've got a lovely friend who shows she cares, just not in the way that makes you feel most connected. As our kids grow up and our lives change, we start to realise how important meaningful friendships really are. And sometimes, understanding how we give and receive love can help us see those friendships a little differently.

In today's episode of Empty Nest, Love & Me, we're talking about:

• Why love languages aren't just for romantic relationships. How the five love languages can help us understand the different ways we show care, appreciation and affection in our friendships.
• When friends show love differently. Why thoughtful gifts, helping out, kind words, quality time or a reassuring hug can mean different things to different people.
• How friendships change during the empty nest years. Why we might find ourselves craving deeper connections when our kids grow up and our everyday routines change.
• The difference between different love languages and one-sided friendships. Why understanding how someone expresses care doesn't mean accepting a consistent lack of effort, consideration or support.
• Learning to communicate what we need from our friends. How honest conversations can help us reconnect, strengthen friendships and build relationships that feel good for both people.

A little challenge for you this week:

Think about one friendship that's important to you.

Ask yourself these three questions:

1. How do I usually show this person that I care?
2. How do they show me that they care?
3. Have I ever actually told them what makes me feel valued in our friendship?

Now, if you feel comfortable, do something with those answers.

Maybe arrange that coffee you've both been talking about for months.

Send a message to say you're thinking about them.

Tell them how much you appreciate having them in your life.

Or have an honest conversation about how you can make more time for each other.

Because friendship isn't just about how much we give.

It's also about feeling valued, supported and knowing that the effort goes both ways.

And remember, understanding someone's love language doesn't mean overlooking a friendship that's consistently one-sided.

You deserve friendships where you feel appreciated too.

Let's stay connected:

If today's episode has made you think about a particular friend, why not share it with her?

It might be a lovely way to start a conversation about what friendship means to both of you.

Follow Empty Nest, Love & Me on your favourite podcast app so you don't miss our next conversation.

Enjoying the podcast? Leaving a rating or review, if your listening app allows it, helps other empty nest parents find these conversations and feel a little less alone.

Follow me on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shaunashannontaylor

Check out my Link in bio: https://theloveresetcoach.com

With love,

Demi-Lee Taylor

Empty Nest & Love Languages Coach