Thoughts on Platonic Love

Is love rebranding?

Friendships are stepping into the spotlight, taking a seat that romance has long occupied—and honestly, there’s a lot to celebrate about this shift. It’s not about "settling" for being “just friends” anymore. Instead, people are recognizing the immense value of these platonic bonds, making them a vital part of our emotional support systems.

Research backs this up. According to a report by YPulse⤤, 55% of young people now say they value their friendships more than romantic relationships. A Gallup survey⤤ also found that 53% of adults receive just as much emotional support from their friends as they do from romantic partners. Could it be that the love of your life isn’t a soulmate but your best friend?

Take a moment to reflect —when was the last time you left a conversation or a gathering with a friend and felt deeply fulfilled? Those catch-ups and deep conversations with the people who truly "get" you aren’t just pleasant; they’re necessary. And yet, how often do we put them on the back burner, waiting for a random plan or coincidence to bring us together? If those connections are so vital, why leave them up to chance?

Experts agree that friendships are essential to our mental health and overall happiness. Studies have found that satisfaction in friendships was the single strongest predictor of happiness in emerging adults—more than family ties or even romantic relationships. Healthy friendships can potentially help buffer against challenges like self-doubt, loneliness, and stress. When you surround yourself with people who genuinely care, your quality of life improves.

This renewed focus on friendships isn’t just happening in isolation; it’s part of a broader cultural change. From initiatives like Taylor Swift’s friendship bracelets at her concerts to social media trends celebrating the beauty of platonic connections, people are grappling with the fatigue of dating apps and leaning into relationships that feel more meaningful. On TikTok, the "friendship CV" trend has encouraged people to intentionally seek out new friends by showcasing what they bring to the table, much like a resume. It’s a refreshing celebration of friendship taking center stage—a main character moment, if you will.

Maybe asking someone to grab coffee feels a little vulnerable, or you’re worried about overstepping. But it’s worth taking that leap. Close friendships often begin spontaneously—when people weren’t actively looking for them. A simple conversation can evolve into one of the most significant relationships in your life.

If the past few years have taught us anything, it’s the importance of these connections. Friendships give us space to laugh until it hurts, to cry when needed, and to feel truly seen. They fill our lives with joy, meaning, and a sense of community—the kind of fulfillment that no app or fleeting romance can replicate.

At Fabrik, we’re committed to cultivating connection hubs. Come for the gathering, stay for the conversation, and discover where it leads. You never know—the person you’re sitting next to might just become a lifelong friend.