Simple ways to make caring for your friendships a habit
Move over “eat well” and “exercise more”. Why not resolve to check in more often with your friendships – especially those which have started to lapse? Checking in often strengthens connections and can make it easier to notice changes in our friends’ well-being. Of course, it’s not always easy to do a proper catch up, so here are some easy and practical ways to maintain regular contact flowing – that won’t feel burdensome.
Use your phone for good
24/7, our phones are not far from our hands, so we may as well make them work for us.
- Quick texts: Send a simple text to ask your friend how they're doing or share something that made you think of them.
- Social media: Maybe they show up more on a certain platform? Like, comment, share a post, send a message or something related to a recent publication.
- Reminders: Use your phone calendar or another app to set regular reminders to check in with certain people. This ensures you don't forget to reach out regularly.
- Group chats: Create the group chat you want to be part of, with particular people. These can be an easy way to stay connected without putting pressure on any one individual.
- Share content: Send your friend articles, videos or memes you think they’ll get a kick out of. This not only provides a reason to connect but also shows that you are thinking about them.
Phone calls – made better
Some of us are good at picking up the phone unprompted. Others (hands up!) need a little help.
- Schedule it: Set up a recurring time for (weekly, monthly or “wheneverly”) call. This can be a dedicated time to catch up, share news and offer support.
- Paired activities: Use your catch-up time even better by pairing it with another activity you enjoy, such as putting in your ear buds and chatting as you go for a walk, meal prep, even pop to the shops.
- Voice messages: Send quick updates and share anecdotes via voice message, whenever you think of it. Doing this while out walking or pottering around your house takes the pressure off and lets your mind just “chat” naturally.
Let the year be your guide
If you think about it, there are several natural moments to (re)connect throughout the calendar year.
- Shared calendar: Share a digital calendar where you can schedule regular check-ins or activities. This helps in planning and ensures that both parties are aware of upcoming interactions.
- Milestones and anniversaries: Their own birthday, their children’s birthdays, a work milestone you’ve noticed on LinkedIn, their wedding anniversary or the anniversary of another significant personal or health-related events are all excellent reasons to get in touch and send your love.