5. Bye, Bye, Bye: When Friendships End

In this episode of Recorded Vulnerabilities, I open up about the heartbreak, the confusion, and the growth that comes with friendship breakups. Whether it’s a slow fade, an abrupt cut-off, or a “love you from afar” moment, letting go of a deep connection hurts, and it deserves space. I talk about losing my best friend from high school and how that grieving process has mirrored the loss of a romantic partner. Sometimes, it hits even harder.

This episode isn’t about answers. It’s about naming the feelings we’re taught to ignore and honoring the love that still lingers, even when the relationship has shifted or ended.

Reflection Prompts & Exercises:Final Thoughts:

Here’s what I want you to sit with after this episode. Grab a journal, voice memo, or talk it out with someone you trust:

1. Is there someone you’ve been ghosting or slow-fading because you’re avoiding a hard conversation? What would it take to be brave enough to talk to them honestly?
   

2. Are you telling yourself a relationship is over so you don’t have to be vulnerable? Or is there still space for connection, maybe even in a new way?
   

3. Is there someone you're still hanging on to out of guilt or habit, even though the friendship is no longer aligned with who you are?
   

4. What kind of friendship are you truly ready to receive right now? Be specific: What does it feel like? Sound like? Look like?
   

5. Red Flags vs. Green Flags in Your Friendships: What do you absolutely need in a friend, and what’s a dealbreaker?
   

I’m still deep in the process, still healing, still growing. But this conversation? This is how I honor the people I’ve loved, even when we’re no longer walking side by side. I believe in talking it through, in building community around the messy, beautiful parts of life.

DM me, comment, and let’s keep this conversation going. I promise, you’re not alone.

Thanks for tapping in with me.

Until next time,Stay vulnerable. Stay friendly.

Connect with Varsey:

• Instagram: @varseylaurelle
  

• LinkedIn: Varsey Laurelle, MBA, CELC
  

• Website: varseylaurelle.com
  

• TikTok: Coming soon