One of our interviews this week focuses on the “existential red pencil” used to edit friends in our third act of life. It turns out researchers have found that we shed people as we get older, and while that seems sad, it actually (also shown by research) makes us happier. At 48, I think I’m starting to do this. I don’t feel as guilty anymore saying no to some things because then I can say yes to others. I feel drawn to spend more time with my family and closest friends and make plans with my oldest friends who are hours away. Does it seem a little mean to not include everyone in my inner friend network? Yes, but now – because of research – I feel a little better about it.
—Shannon