What Sheryl Sandberg Gets Right About Female Friendships
Facebook COO Sheryl Sandberg. Image by Getty Images
Sheryl Sandberg ended the with another prolific post on Facebook — this time, about her New Year’s resolution.
With over 29,000 likes since it was published on January 4, the post clearly struck a chord with her followers. And if you dissect the post’s message, it’s easy to see why.
While Sandberg focused on a specific resolution — writing down three things she does well each day — she also chose to emphasize the strength she gains from her support group of female childhood friends.
Throughout adulthood, friends slowly move from the forefront the background. With marriage and children comes the dissolution of tight-knit friend groups. Sandberg’s post shows the importance of maintaining friendships throughout every phase of life, because the need for a support system and human connection never goes away. In the past, she called on her circle for banal everyday issues — but when her husband died she had a solid network of friends to help her through in a thoughtful and meaningful way.
“These amazing women have supported me since I was ten years old—through ups and downs, laughter and tears, life and now death. Together, we have been through adolescence, college, starting careers and families. They’ve advised me on everything—from what dress to wear to the prom to what job to take. They were part of the inspiration for Lean In Circles and they are a big part of why I am able to smile again,” she wrote.
In her book, “Lean In,” Sandberg encouraged women to start Lean In Circle, defined as “small groups who meet regularly to learn and grow together,” according to the Lean In Circles website. There are 25,000 groups all over the world. Circles are open to women and men and the website gives the option to join a circle or make your own.
“My Lean In Circle will help me stick to my resolution and I will help them stick to theirs. Together, we are stronger than we are individually. And because of them, I know I am never alone. My wish to everyone is for a joyful new year. May you find the Circle that supports you—and cherish the moments of joy in each day.”
Resolutions are often forgotten by the time February rolls around, but Sandberg’s point rings true. The idea of being a good friend to others and having good friends will only add to the likelihood of achieving goals and enjoying life while you do so.
A message from our CEO & publisher Rachel Fishman Feddersen
I hope you appreciated this article. Before you go, I’d like to ask you to please support the Forward’s award-winning, nonprofit journalism during this critical time.
We’ve set a goal to raise $260,000 by December 31. That’s an ambitious goal, but one that will give us the resources we need to invest in the high quality news, opinion, analysis and cultural coverage that isn’t available anywhere else.
If you feel inspired to make an impact, now is the time to give something back. Join us as a member at your most generous level.
— Rachel Fishman Feddersen, Publisher and CEO
