Starting up a group can be an incredibly rewarding experience. Meeting once a month to catch up or share stories with friends can make a world of difference. Whether it’s a casual pot-luck for six, or appetizers for twenty, a group can be a great resource for everyone involved. Here are five reasons to start a group with your girlfriends.

Motivational
We all have tough days where we feel trapped in our lives. Maybe we’re struggling with a draining job or are having troubles finding a partner. We’ve all been in that place where we need that little push of excitement to move us forward. The great thing about a women’s group is that we’ve all been there. Consider a meeting where you share stories of things you’ve overcome. Books like Dropped Threads are motivational because they are stories of women by women overcoming the odds or making it through the storm. You can help keep each other moving. If Joan is really trying to lose weight, help keep her motivated each month. Conversely, if you know you should be seeking out a new job, have someone in the group keep reminding you of the benefits of doing so.

Support
Right alongside motivational is support. A women’s group can be an incredible source of strength and support. You may be tackling an illness, or dealing with problems at home. A women’s group can be a phenomenal place to share your situation openly and receive support as a consequence. It’s a great place to bounce ideas off of each other. Knowing someone else may understand your plight is comforting. Support can also be for future events. If someone is about to change her life circumstances, providing insights and information can be incredibly valuable.

Networking
Why network? Because in this day and age, it’s all about who you know. Whether you’re job hunting or not, networking can be a great resource. If you choose to form a women’s group that is focused around networking, check out a few before you do so to get ideas. People are resources. They can provide ideas, referrals, advice… they can be the person opening the door to a new opportunity for you. Sometimes, coming up with a barter system works well. You know one woman who makes gourmet chocolates, you know another looking for executive gifts. Presto.

Social
Women’s groups are a great way to catch up with friends. Trying to see everyone one-on-one can be incredibly daunting and exhausting. It may not even be possible. Meeting once a month allows you time to chat with everyone in one place. It’s also an opportunity to make new friends. Some women’s groups have special evenings where you invite other friends to the event. Others have an open door policy. All-in-all, it’s a great opportunity for a social fix.

Educational
Why not dedicate each meeting to learning something new? Bring in a skin care specialist to talk about products. Each month, ask one of the women to share a skill with the group in a mini-presentation format, such as cooking, crafting, organizing, garden tips, silk screening, etc. Friends can be a valuable resource when it comes to continuing education.

Take time out with your girlfriends in a relaxing, positive manner. Being part of a women’s group can be an incredibly rewarding experience.