I often reflect on the evolving nature of friendship: why some bonds endure, whilst others fade or only last a season. And within this, I remind myself that at every life stage it is possible to nurture meaningful connections that enrich our emotional lives.

I recently posted a celebratory message on social media about my students – a heartfelt note, late at night, full of pride and joy. But instead of sharing in the sentiment, someone chose to point out a spelling mistake.

Conflict and disagreement are an inevitable part of any relationship. Two people with different backgrounds, personalities, perspectives, beliefs, experiences, and tastes can lead from minor everyday annoyances to serious relationship-crushing conflict.

We have literally entered the year with a multitude of flat batteries: physically, emotionally, and to add to the discomfort, also Eskom-induced.

The latest trend of quiet quitting – doing the bare minimum at work – sees people actively refraining from going the extra mile and disengaging from giving it their all.