What it means is so broad and unique to the individual. It is vague enough that the spectrum of relationships that fall under it's umbrella is incredibly broad. The term "friend" can be used to describe basically anyone we know who is neither a relative nor a partner.

All of us have these complex relationships we describe as friendships. Multiple studies have shown the importance of friendship pertaining to overall happiness, and equally the damaging effect on an individual's mental health when this particular breed of relationship is lacking.  We can all acknowledge the importance and value of friendships, yet many of us struggle to find time to prioritise them. Despite this, there is limited advice for us on how to make, maintain or even break these relationships; most advice being offered in relation to a romantic relationships. 

This point alone brings into question the similarities and differences between a platonic friend and a romantic partner, and why friendships are not discussed more openly and regularly. Is it assumed that these relationships just happen without intent, effort or thought? This book looks to explore how we make new friends, how we maintain friendships, and indeed how we end them. The concept is so unspoken that there is no language for such an ending. Why? 

In my book I hope to explore these things, and many more. I hope to challenge the way we handle these relationships and explore the self esteem issues behind our patterns and behaviours, codependency issues, and of course, how we address the issues we face -  if we do address them at all. I want to encourage accountability for self, and probe into the quiet expectations that come with a friendship and the unspoken conditions of this seemingly unconditional affair. I hope to delve into the concept of emotional needs and if there is really a place for them in this concept of friendship. 

I do not have the answers, so my mission is to open this discussion to anyone and everyone interested and willing to participate. Through this website and this blog, we will discover the topics that need to be covered, and I will do my best to cover them. Your mission, should you choose to accept it is to get active in this community.  Please join my discussions, take my survey, share your personal stories and direct me on the topics you want addressed. You, my followers, fans and friends, will directly influence the direction and outcome of my writing. 

"You are not only responsible for what you say, but also for what you do not say." 

- Martin Luther 

To get involved and help me out, have your say. This topic has stayed silent and unspoken for too long. This is important. If you agree, or even if you don't, let's get talking. I look forward to hearing from you. Thanks for sharing this journey with me.