Friendships, like any relationship, fall apart through hectic work hours, changing lives or even geographical distance. But seeing friends that you were not with will not only be nostalgic, but it will also be socially important. If you\u2019ve been considering contacting an old friend, but don\u2019t know what to do, here are some tips for reconnecting, even if you haven\u2019t heard from them in years. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Acknowledging the distance is the first step in reconnecting with former friends. Understand that the time and circumstance has brought them apart, but it doesn\u2019t mean that friendship is irreparable. The majority of friendships, even good ones, end with a way of continuing from where they started. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
It\u2019s a very important first step. Don\u2019t wait for someone else to reach out. Drop a message, call, or reach out via social media. “I was just thinking of you and wanted to check in.” can set the tone. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Thanks to technology, reconnecting has never been easier. Make sure to use a platform that feels right and appropriate for the friendship: <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Twitter \/ Facebook \/ Instagram \/ LinkedIn are ideal for casual outreach. You can comment on a post or message them in private to let them know you\u2019re thinking of them. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Calls or Texts: If the friendship was more intimate, a text or call may sound more natural. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Email: For messages that last more than a few days, emails are a great way to catch up and remember each other. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Select the approach that feels comfortable and most likely to get them in. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
When reconnecting, honesty is key. Tell them that you are truly interested in catching up and building the relationship. You might say something like: <\/p>\n\n\n\n
“I know I\u2019ve missed you, but I was thinking of all of the good times we had and would like to see you again. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Acknowledging the gap indicates you\u2019re aware of your own limitations and takes away the awkwardness. People value being transparent and will respond well to your transparency. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Making a trip back to cherished memories is an effective connection-making tool. Tell us something about your friend that you would like to share \u2014 a trip, a story, a milestone that you shared together. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
For example: <\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u2018I just came across an old photo of us from that beach trip we went on and it was all so much fun. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Recollections may elicit memories and can offer a wonderful place to begin. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
You need to know that your friend might not respond the same way. They may be happy to see you, or they might be hesitant if it feels like the distance is too long. Be patient and respectful of their emotions. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
If the answer is tepid, don\u2019t freak out. Others may not be able to process immediately or be emotionally in the same place. Be gentle with them, but leave the line of communication open. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
When you\u2019ve broken the ice, propose another approach. If you live in the same city, arrange for coffee or lunch. If distance is a concern, a video call will do the trick. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Leave the preparation as simple and informal as possible: <\/p>\n\n\n\n
“Come for a coffee and let\u2019s catch up! How about next week?” <\/p>\n\n\n\n
With a game plan in place, you\u2019ll make the reconnecting process more firm and let them know that you mean business. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Reliving the past is an excellent way to catch up, but it\u2019s also a great time to look forward. Discuss what\u2019s going on in their life \u2014 work, family, hobbies \u2014 and let them know something about you. This strengthens the relationship by connecting you to who you are now and not who you were previously. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Stay optimistic and don\u2019t dwell on the reasons you fell out of touch unless you really have to. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Reconnecting isn\u2019t the end of the story. If you want to maintain the friendship, try to check in on each other often. Contact them from time to time, send birthday wishes, or just say hello. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
A little daily effort can make a big difference in keeping that rekindled relationship going strong. Remember, relationships thrive when nurtured. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
It doesn\u2019t mean friendships will all be the same, and that\u2019s okay. Individuals develop over time, and relationships sometimes evolve as well. If the re-engagement feels different, accept the altered version of the friendship for what it is. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
What counts is the time you spent together, and the memories you can keep making. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Going back to old friends, even after years, is very satisfying. It takes courage to communicate, but the satisfaction of rekindling an authentic connection is worth it. Just by being open, demonstrating interest and trying to maintain the new connection, you can bring even the best of friends back to life. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
You don\u2019t live long enough to let great friendships go. So start today, contact that old friend and you could rekindle a loved one so much that it\u2019s like yesterday. <\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
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