Preserving friendships when you barely text back

Preserving friendships when you barely text back can be a real struggle. We all have that one friend or maybe we are that one friend who just can’t get it together when it comes to staying in touch and maintaining the relationship. I will admit, I am that one friend.

In today’s society, communication is on a different level. Our social interactions are met through technology rather than physical interaction. Meeting face to face has been replaced with a few double taps and an occasional emoji on a friend’s picture on our timeline. We find out about hospital visits, engagements, and childbirths all by scrolling on our Facebook and tapping through Instagram Stories.

Whatever happened to picking up the phone to call or meeting up with your best friend for lunch? I can admit that I’m definitely not the best when it comes to texting back and I avoid phone calls like the plague. I guess it’s the introvert in me, Trust me, it’s nothing personal but I’m sure not everyone else takes it that way. So, here’s a few things that I’ve come to realize I must put into action in order to preserve my beloved friendships…all three of them.

Be honest with the people you value

Some of those that are close to you may think that you’re “acting funny,” but maybe you’ve been going through something or have been in a bit of a funk. Be honest with your friends. You’ll be surprised to find just how much more you have in common when you share your truths with each other.  There was a time not long ago when a friend of mine apologized for being distant because of some things she was going through. It was funny because, I felt like I was the one being distant because of my current situation. We were then able to encourage one another and choose joy together rather than sulking alone in our own mess.

Pencil them in

Set a day to call and text your close friends and family members and even new associates that have the potential of being good friends.  I’ve come to an understanding that if I can schedule other things in my life that are important to me, I should be able to do the same when it comes to the relationships I value in my life. You can’t always be on the receiving end. All actions need to be reciprocated in order for the friendship to bloom.  Doing this shows that you value these people and that you’re consistent. They’ll definitely receive your efforts and see that you value the friendship.

Don’t be a flake

When you set up a date to hang out don’t back out.  As an introvert, I usually don’t like to get out for much besides work and the grocery store only out of necessity.  There are times when I make plans, but just don’t want to go when the time comes around. Canceling plans at the last minute or even going as far standing up your friend is no Bueno.   This can hurt their feelings and leave them feeling that you’re unreliable and that you do not value their time. Don’t be a flake. Stick to your word and if you really have a legitimate reason as to why you can make it, let them know. A true friend will understand.

Write a letter to express how much you care

Do you remember the days when we use to pass notes in class folded like origami? I still have mine from a boy named Jerome back in 9th grade. lol! If you remember those notes, then you remember just how special they made you feel to receive them just because. It would be from a friend telling you how cute your hair is today or a boy telling you how much he likes you. Either way, you felt amazing that day all because of a few words on paper. Go ahead and take it way back and write your close friends a few lines letting them know how dope they are. You can send it through text, snail mail, or an email. You’d be surprised how something so simple can make someone’s day.

Offer them help

Sometimes our friends just need a helping hand. It can be difficult to go about the normal day to day tasks and keep our sanity. Offer to baby sit to give them a break for some me time or a date night. Come over and cook a meal or bring extra of something that you’ve already prepared. Set up a day to help your bestie to organize a room in their home. Wherever you see that your friend may need a little assistance, offer it to them. They may not ask, but they’ll appreciate it more than you’ll ever know.

What are some ways you find yourself preserving friendships that you value in your life? Leave a comment and share below. I’d love to hear from you!