5 Reasons women should have each other's backs

What's the deal with catfights, cliques, and undermining each other? Women have the reputation of being unsupportive for many reasons, whether it be in social, academic, or professional settings. This behaviour begins at a young age, and many of us don't seem to grow out of the gossip queens we were in high school. Here are 5 reasons why women should have each other's backs as soul sisters! 

1. To live longer

Can it really be as easy as that? Being nice to other women in your life can help you live longer? According to research, being part of a tight social circle leads to a happier, healthier, and longer life. Surrounding yourself with uplifting women (and lifting them up as well) will add to your sense of purpose in life and will give you a reason besides banana bread to get out of bed in the morning.

2. To reduce stress

If you're going through a breakup or other tough emotional situation you tend to talk about it every chance you get, even with complete strangers after a couple glasses of wine... does this sound familiar? When women go through stressful situations they actually release a hormone called oxytocin, which triggers a desire to build and maintain relationships. So go ahead girl, tell us how much of an a**hole he was to you one more time, it's your brain helping you deal with the stress ;) Bonding with other women is a biological response and helps soothe the stressful situations we get ourselves into.

3. To hold you accountable

Having a circle of women and peers around to give you objective feedback and to let you know when you simply haven't done a good job or are being a lazy Fit Girl is constructive. This external affirmation and support is just as valuable as your close friend calling you out on your crap (that dress simply does not make you look fat). Nobody is perfect, and it is those close to you who will be able to see when you need a hug or an extra challenge.

4. To be your soulmates

A soulmate is a person you connect with on a level you can't exactly explain. As women we needs lots of contact, affirmation, and both physical and emotional love. Don't expect one person to meet all of these needs, and find other women who can provide you with joy, love, and understanding when you're at your best as well as at your worst.

5. To support your goals and objectives

Build yourself a network of women who inspire you to DO things bigger and better, to chase your dreams. Social media has made it easier than ever to find others who share the same visions and goals with regard to fitness, careers, and other life choices. Take advantage of this! If you're looking for someone to work out with in your area, you can even comment on a #FITGIRLCODE Instagram post and you're sure to find a group of loving, dedicated women to lift you up and get you going!

Even if you grew up entwined in gossip, exclusion, and competition with other girls, remember that this negative energy will not produce anything positive. There is plenty of room in the world for many successful, happy, and healthy women working together to achieve their dreams. Don't tear each other down but lift each other up! 

source: www.mindbodygreen.com