A thousand Instagram likes don’t equal the wellness boost of one friendly hug.
In our fast-paced world of glamourised busyness, social media fixation and convenience without human contact, there’s nothing like putting down our devices and turning to those few special people who fill our cups, light us up, and embolden us to be our best selves—that is, our closest women friends.
Why not make the most of the precious time you have together and plan dates that will heal your body, nourish your spirit, and fuel your desire for personal growth? Acts of Friendship presents 47 activities for you and your friends to connect with each other and help one another change your lives in ways you never expected.
Sometimes you need a friend to tell you that you’re exceptional or to applaud you when you explore a hidden talent; sometimes only a friend can remind you to slow down or nudge you to expand your concept of who you are. From Take Your Cue (where you connect the dots to a better life) to A Friendly Q&A (where you learn PGW Winter 2020 Omnibus everything you’ve ever wanted to know about your pals and yourself) to Let’s Go Retro (where you time travel with your friends) and more, these meaningful, fun activities are meant to energise, inspire, and rejuvenate you so that, together, you grow.
About the Authors
Lynne Everatt is a recovering MBA, LinkedIn Top Voice in management and culture and ardent advocate for wellness through physical fitness. As part of her rehabilitation, she wrote The 5-Minute Recharge: 31 Proven Strategies to Refresh, Reset and Become the Boss of Your Day, aimed at improving workplace mental health, and Emails from the Edge, which was nominated for the Stephen Leacock Medal for Humour. Prior to pursuing her dream of becoming a writer, she worked with numbers at a multinational pharmaceutical company where she met co-authors Deb Mangolt and Julie Smethurst, who share her love of physical activity, earthy food, and self-improvement through friendship.
Deb Mangolt's positive attitude and bubbly personality is ideally suited to helping others get the most out of life. Once a Fortune 500 finance director, she reinvented herself to better express her strengths. An event planner, life coach, dance fitness instructor, and a cherished friend to many, Deb inspires others to become the best versions of who they are. Being an avid golfer, Deb is grateful for having "the best of both worlds," living in Florida in the winter and on Muskoka Bay, Ontario, in the summer, with her husband, Randy.
Julie Smethurst discovered her life as a successful CPA was out of balance. Fulfilling her desires for time with family, personal growth, and work achievements seemed elusive until she looked to her friends Lynne and Deb. Their inspiration and support coupled with Julie's deep yearning to live a life she loves was the winning formula for her best life. She has adapted her ways of working, created dedicated family time, and pursued her desire to learn to fly. Julie plays tennis and golf and has indulged her love of French by taking courses. She has a passion for healthy food and enjoys taking long walks and bike rides with her husband.
Industry Reviews
My best friendships are the ones that not only include our personal growth, but also invite our playfulness-it's a winning combo for feeling closer to each other and making the memories that bring us joy. This book is full of really creative ways to foster the Frientimacy we all want more of in our lives. If you want deeper friendships, I dare you to connect in these 47 fun and meaningful ways!
-Shasta Nelson, M.Div, Author of Frientimacy, and the upcoming book, The Business of Friendship
Reading Acts of Friendship was like a warm blanket on a cold night. These truths resonate deeply, and remind us to cherish what we need most at this crucial time in history. While work, family, and productivity pressures increase, women are often told to sacrifice and put the needs of others first. Technology is meant to help us manage these demands, but the cost can be deep feelings of isolation, disconnection, and loneliness. The antidote to this global phenomenon is the strength, love, and acceptance that we feel and generate within our female friendships.
-Dr. Alisa Ruby Bash, Psychologist and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist
Acts of Friendship serves as a true inspiration for women who want to stay well and support one another. The ability to be vulnerable and yet grow stronger together is a gift not ever to be taken lightly.
-Jo-Anne Poirier, President and CEO, VON Canada
I challenge you to pick up this book and become that friend. The one who is always up for an adventure, always inspiring, and always helping others grow.
-Mary Ann Baynton, MSW, Workplace Mental Health Specialist and Principal at Mary Ann Baynton & Associates
