Why Some of My Friendships Faded (And Why It Is Okay)

When I was a civil engineer, my conversations were about blueprints and building codes. When I became a special education teacher, they were about students and lesson plans. Now, as an online entrepreneur, they are about funnels and affiliate marketing. With each reinvention, I have found that some old friendships naturally faded, not from conflict, but because our paths simply diverged. It used to trouble me, but I have learned that this is a natural and even healthy part of growth.

Do you ever feel this way?

•You notice certain relationships feel different or distant.

•You struggle with shifting priorities and changing social circles.

•You wonder why some relationships no longer fit your life’s direction.

The truth is, as you grow, your relationships naturally evolve. Understanding why these shifts happen can help you navigate them with wisdom and grace. As 1 Corinthians 13:11 says, “When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I put the ways of childhood behind me.” Growth requires change, even in relationships.

Why My Relationships Changed in Midlife

•My Priorities Shifted. My focus moved from building physical structures to building a legacy for my family and helping other educators find freedom. My "why" changed, and that changed who I connected with.

•My Personal Growth Accelerated. My mindset, shaped by mentors in the digital world, no longer fit perfectly with the 9-to-5 conversations I used to have. My interests and values evolved.

•My Emotional Maturity Deepened. I realized my time was precious. I became more intentional about investing it in relationships that sharpened me, like my church community and mastermind groups.

Biblical Example: Moses and Jethro’s Evolving Relationship

Jethro mentored Moses early in his journey, but as Moses grew into his leadership role, their relationship changed. Jethro eventually released Moses to lead, showing that even meaningful relationships evolve with purpose. “Listen now to me and I will give you some advice, and may God be with you.” (Exodus 18:19). Relationships serve different roles in different seasons.

5 Ways I Have Learned to Navigate Relationship Shifts

1.Which relationships are evolving, and why? I had to honestly reflect on why conversations with some old colleagues felt strained. It was not anyone's fault. Our worlds had just become different.

2.How can I embrace these changes with grace? I learned to be thankful for the season a friendship served, even if that season was over, and to release it without guilt.

3.What new relationships is God bringing into my life? I saw how He brought Vive Church and new mentors into my life right when I needed them to align with my new direction.

4.How can I communicate my needs as relationships change? I learned to be honest and gracious, letting people know my focus had shifted.

5.What scripture reminds me that change is part of life’s journey? “For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven.” (Ecclesiastes 3:1)

How to Navigate Relationship Shifts with Wisdom

•Accept That Change is Natural. Not all relationships will remain the same, and that is okay.

•Invest in Meaningful Connections. Prioritize relationships that align with your values and growth.

•Let Go of Guilt. Some relationships fade because you are growing, not because you are failing.

•Pray for Discernment. Ask God for wisdom in maintaining and releasing relationships.

As Proverbs 27:17 says, “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.” The right relationships will support your growth, not hinder it.

Your Turn: What is one relationship shift you have noticed in your own midlife journey? Reflect on it this week and trust God’s guidance.