I love coming to see this older friend of mine (who could practically be my mother because she is almost 20 years older) more than I enjoy people my own age. Why is that? I have always had this penchant with getting along with people younger than myself, or older. What is that about?

Is it because there is no possible competition? I think with older people, they are just more sensible. Less drama. More common sense. Lots of wisdom to share. I also think that older folks get a real kick of listening and laughing to younger people. It gives the a chance to think about what they did at that age, or they are probably secretly thinking how dumb some of the decisions that the younger generation are making.

Whatever it is, it works out nicely for me. We have such a good time with my older friend, even if she goes to bed early or doesn’t feel good, when we are with her we feel like we are at home. We fix meals and clean up and she never complains and is just so selfless. It is refreshing

Younger friends can be fun too. I have a younger girlfriend whom I call to do lounges with when my daughter is at a sleepover. She is fun and girly and we both dress to the nines and turn heads when we are out together. I enjoy listening to her dramatic stories of love and the dating scene. She hasn’t knocked on 30’s door yet, though she will be soon. I am not tons older than her, but just old enough to feel protective of her and to offer her wise words. But I am young enough to have fun hanging out with her from time to time.

When I thought I was going to be into the dating scene last year before I decided hell no, she was who I wanted to hang with or talk to as much as I could. She was the fun time friend. But when it comes to serious matters, she would not be on the top of my list of people to turn to.

though I of course have friends my age, they have kids too that are near my age. This keeps us busy, often times they are stressed and busy. But honestly nit is the competitive aspect that bugs me the most. A lot of people that we know are jealous of all that my kid can do. They are not overtly so, but it is obvious when my kid has accomplished something huge like almost getting signed with an agent. I don’t brag about it, and sometimes do not mention these things on social media so that people do not think that I am bragging or something. Of course I have friends who know the real deal and are supportive. I am the same way with their kids. I think that is the biggest reason that I prefer to hang around people from different generations of my own, the whole one upping regarding each other’s children.

So, if you are noticing that people in your social circle are not your cup of tea, reach out to friends that are maybe not in your age range or core group of friends. Go for tea with a kind older neighbor and learn about her younger years. If you have an older kid, go meet with a young mom with a new baby and impart some wisdom for them while showing empathy to her lack of sleep. My whole point is, that friends come in all forms and it really is nice to open up your heart mind to different people. You may find that their friendship is exactly what you have been searching for.