Loyalty, Kindness, Trust: How Can I Find Friends Who Share My Values?

We all know that we want to be surrounded by people who share the qualities and values that are important to us - whether that's being honest, kind, loyal, adventurous, or determined. But how can we tell whether new connections share our core values? And how far should we pursue friendships with people who don't share our values, or where this isn't clear? What are the risks in doing this vs the pros of holding out for relationships where there is a real alignment of values? In this session we'll look at these questions, and reflect a bit on our own experiences of building values-based friendships.

***Please note that this session will be recorded, and made available afterwards on the Friendshift Circle community & learning platform.***

What is Friendshift?
Friendshift is a new online community for thoughtful, independent types who lean towards the introverted side. People who want to build better friendships and more deeply connected lives, even without necessarily being in a romantic relationship (the vast majority of our members are single / living solo). We look at how to build authentic, trust-based friendships as a powerful source of fun, companionship and support.

What is a Friendshift seminar / open session?
Part of the Friendshift mission is to make it normal to talk about friendship, and to provide safe, welcoming spaces where people feel comfortable doing so. Every fortnight, founder Hannah runs an open, completely free seminar or Q&A session (advertised on MeetUp, Facebook and elsewhere). At the moment, seminars / sessions are held on a Wednesday lunchtime (UK time / GMT), and each one covers a different aspect of modern friendships and platonic relationships more generally - usually prompted by a question from someone in our community. Sessions are structured, usually with supporting slides, and are (now) recorded so that those in other time zones or otherwise not able to attend can catch up afterwards.

Who is it for?
Hannah's events tend attract thoughtful, reflective, independent types - most of whom are aged over 30 - people who like deep / interesting conversations, and prefer to connect in more stereotypically introverted / lower-key ways. But you don't have to be this demographic to attend - if the topic sounds interesting and useful to you, and you want to find out more about building better friendships in a safe, supportive space, then you are very welcome to join :-)

Why should I attend?

• A chance to meet other people who are on the same learning journey as you.
• Walk away with practical advice that's already been tried and tested by your peers.
• Opportunity to seek advice and support on friendship issues that you're facing

What if I'm worried about talking on camera / taking part?
It's absolutely fine to get involved in Friendshift seminars and other sessions in whatever way feels most comfortable for you. We're very introvert-friendly here 😊 Sessions are interactive, with plenty of opportunities to contribute and ask questions via the chat, and by coming on camera. And because we deal with real life issues, everyone benefits when ideas and experiences are shared! But if you'd prefer to just listen in with your camera off, that's absolutely fine too. I sometimes put participants into smaller breakout groups to aid learning - if this happens, I'll mention it in advance so that you can decide whether you want to take part, or re-join the group later.

Your Facilitator
Hannah Carmichael OBE is a yoga-loving mum-of-one with ADHD and a serious coffee addiction. After a long career in the corporate world, she took the plunge in 2023 and decided to see if she could turn her 'passion project' - helping solo introverts recognise their unique strengths, and build deeply connected lives - into a full time mission, and stable source of income for her and her family. Friendshift was born! As a reformed 'awkward type,' Hannah loves nothing more than to see those she works with find the confidence to be their authentic selves, while building beautiful, wholehearted connections into their lives. She loves cosy chats, and making real connections with people in her online communities.