Joan is an animated, big-hearted, competitive perfectionist who’s conditioned to operate by the books but privately desires a life fueled by passion and purpose. She’s committed to her morals and loyal to those she loves, as demonstrated through her selfless acts of service. An admirable characteristic that makes her feel needed but not always appreciated. In turn, we often see Joan desperately yearning for the day when a romantic partner would reciprocate the same affection she invests in her relationships— Sending her on a seemingly endless love roller coaster. Though Joan is uptight, she can often be enthusiastically extra. Awkward but genuine; sophisticated but playful. An over-thinker, but mindfully self-aware. And Supportive but a tad bit controlling.

All traits that I — with a halfway cringed face — uncomfortably came to acknowledge that I too possess. Out of all the women, I connect with Joan the most, and that’s why some of her failures felt like they hit a little too close to home but greatly resonated with me. 

During this week’s episode, I’m joined by my older cousin, who’s really my big sister, Brittany Jones. Brittany and I are both avid fans of Girlfriends, and naturally, we’ve indulged in reflective conversations about what we can take away from the women on the show. I’m so grateful to have Brittiany on as my very first guest! But I don’t want to hold us up any longer. Let’s go ahead and see what we can learn from our girlfriend, Joan.