If you're thoughtful, independent, and genuinely care about others – but something feels off in your friendships – you're far from alone!

In fact, struggles with building meaningful friendships in midlife and beyond is something most of us experience at some point! It could have happened because your circumstances have changed (e.g.: divorce / separation, moving to a new area, having kids etc). Or because the circumstances of the people around you have changed (e.g.: other people partnering up and / or having kids when that's not your path at the moment). Or it could just be because you've outgrown the people you're used to spending your time with - that happens too!

Whatever your situation, I know exactly how disorienting to realise that you're missing the kind of supportive, rooted, trust-based connections you assumed you've have by this point in your life. I also know how hard it can be to change this when you're an independent yet deeply caring soul. You crave meaningful connections with people who truly understand and value you, yet your deep loyalty to 'your' people makes it hard for you to walk away from connections that aren't serving you. You have a tendency to over-give, putting your needs second to those of the people you care about - even though that means others sometimes overlook the fact that you have needs too. You don't like burdening people with your issues. And you feel kind of funny about being seen to need others - even though you thrive on good quality connections and value being included. If this sounds like you, then I can help!

I'm Hannah Carmichael OBE, a friendship and connection coach who's spent years helping independent-minded people (many of whom are single / solo) work out what's missing from their friendships, and how to build more meaningful, authentic, enjoyable trust-based connections into all aspects of their lives. As someone who was single for years, I had to work out how to build a life that felt healthy, connected and fulfilling - even without a romantic relationship. Building incredible friendships was a huge part of that. I've also rebuilt my own friendship circles multiple times through major life transitions. Everything I teach is drawn from my real, lived experience, and the content I send is practical, compassionate, research-backed, and thought-provoking. I know what works – and what doesn't, and will guide you through this too.

Sign up for my 'Dare To Belong' newsletter, and every Saturday, I'll send you...

• Fresh perspectives on the friendship challenges thoughtful, genuine, independent people face every day
• Real examples of 'what worked' from my own life and client work
• Practical strategies you can use straight away to make immediate changes in the quality of your own relationships
• Honest advice that respects your intelligence and independence

I don't do fluff or generic advice! Only the kind of insights that help you understand why your relationships feel the way they do – and what you can do about it.

The 'Dare To Belong' newsletter is completely free and always will be. Just leave me your details below, and join thousands of other readers who are building beautiful friendships in a way that feels aligned, sustainable, and authentic.