It’s well documented that having friends enriches our lives and our health, by doing things like preventing loneliness, celebrating the good times, and increasing our sense of belonging. Friends also support us during bad times. And, quite literally sometimes, may actually save us. If you’ve ever had to do a wellness check on a friend,…
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Defining and classifying friends
Friendships are voluntary interpersonal relationships between two people who are usually equals and who mutually influence one another

We’ll raise a cup of kindness yet, to times gone by
New Year’s Day 2021 is so close the countdown can be done in hours, rather than days. It means the year 2020 is behind us, although presumably many of the trials, tribulations and challenges it brought will be carried over into the new calendar year. The New Year is traditionally ushered in at midnight by…

Happy holidays from Project BFF
To all our friends near and far: Happy holidays! Since 1971, the Canadian province of Halifax has sent a tree to Boston for Christmas. This year, the tree is dedicated to healthcare workers to honor both Boston’s response after the Halifax Explosion and those who are working on the frontlines during the COVID-19 pandemic. This…

A Conversation with Tiffany Shlain
Project BFF sat down with Emmy-nominated filmmaker Tiffany Shlain to talk about the friendships in her life. Project BFF: Tell us a memorable experience with a friend when you were younger. Why has that always stuck with you? Tiffany: I went to a theater arts camp when I was 10 and met a girl who…

Dear 2020: You had ups and (way too many) downs – but we’re still standing!
Despite this being an unusual and challenging year, reflecting on 2020 is still helpful. You’ve gotten this far–you just may have more grit and resiliency than you thought.

Gratefulness for my friends
Friends give us so much, and do many things–like supporting us when we do something a little unexpected.

What is your Thanksgiving disaster story? (We know you have one!)
Of the many traditions that exist around Thanksgiving Day in the US, one that only gets better over time is the re-telling (or originating) of dinner disasters. And while they’re not funny at the time (especially if it happens to you) they really become legendary among family and friends. Some of our favorite sitcoms have…

The pandemic that stole the holidays…or will it?
Well, it’s finally here. The 2020 holiday season is gaining momentum, as are the reported increases in the number of coronavirus cases in the US and other countries. And while it’s one thing to admit we’ve been anticipating the disruption to traditional travel plans and celebrations, it’s another to accept that the impact may still…

Five fun ways to thank a friend
Our friends do so much for us, and it’s easy to get into habits with each other and forget to express your gratitude—for their presence in your life, perhaps, or for something specific they did for you. We’re all busy and life is a little bit strange right now, challenging our relationships. So, this is…