As life grows busier with work, family, and personal commitments, maintaining friendships can feel like a challenge. Between juggling tasks and responsibilities, it’s easy to lose touch. But friendships, like any relationship, require effort, and small, meaningful gestures can keep them alive and thriving.
The first thing to consider, believe it or not, is the generation of which someone is from. This can help you determine the best method to keep in touch, whether it be phone, card, email, call or text. While older generations seem to prefer a phone call, according to one recent survey by Sky Group, younger generations prefer text or email.
According to the survey, a quarter (26%) of Gen Z say they actively shirk speaking to people on the phone. New research released today has revealed almost a third (32%) of Gen Z will rarely make a phone call with a fifth (20%) finding it weird when they receive one. Of those surveyed, 36% admit they would only make a call to locate their mates on a night out and around one in five (19%) would only make a voice call in an emergency.
Once you know the method to keep in touch, here’s how you can stay connected with your friends in a thoughtful, modern way:
1. Communicate, Even When Life Gets Hectic
Even a simple “thinking of you” text or email can make a world of difference. When time doesn’t allow for lengthy phone calls or meetups, sending a quick message to check in shows that you value the friendship. Try setting a weekly or bi-weekly reminder to text or call a friend just to say hello.
Etiquette Tip: Avoid guilt-tripping yourself or your friend for not reaching out often enough. Focus on the quality of communication, not the quantity.
2. Plan Ahead for Meaningful Catch-Ups
Busy schedules can make spontaneous plans difficult. Instead, try scheduling a coffee date, a virtual hangout, or even a phone call ahead of time. Having something on the calendar ensures that time is set aside for connection.
Etiquette Tip: Respect each other’s time. If a friend can’t make it, be flexible and understanding. Life happens, and rescheduling shows maturity in your friendship.
3. Leverage Technology to Stay Connected
Virtual meetups, group chats, and shared playlists or shows can bring a sense of closeness, even from afar. Use social media thoughtfully by engaging with your friends’ posts, or set up a regular video call if in-person meetings aren’t feasible.
Etiquette Tip: Be mindful of over-relying on social media for connection. Meaningful conversations, even over a text or voice note, go much further than “likes” on a post.
4. Celebrate the Small (and Big) Wins
Be present for your friends’ big life events—birthdays, promotions, engagements—but don’t overlook the small things. Sending a congratulatory message when a friend shares good news or offering a listening ear during tough times strengthens your bond.
Etiquette Tip: Personalize your messages. A heartfelt note can be more impactful than a generic message or emoji.
5. Practice Grace and Understanding
Everyone’s life goes through different seasons, and your availability to one another may fluctuate. Sometimes friends will be the ones reaching out more, and other times it might be you. Understanding this ebb and flow is key to long-term friendships.
Etiquette Tip: Don’t take it personally if a friend seems distant—approach them with understanding and patience. Offer support, not pressure.
6. Be Intentional About Quality Time
When you do manage to catch up with friends, make the time count. Put away your phone, actively listen, and be fully present in the moment. It’s not about the amount of time spent but the quality of your interaction.
Etiquette Tip: Avoid distractions and be engaged in the conversation. Being present shows that you value the time spent with your friend, no matter how limited.
7. Send Unexpected Surprises
A surprise note, gift, or even a fun meme that reminds you of them can brighten a friend’s day. It’s the unexpected, thoughtful gestures that often have the greatest impact.
Etiquette Tip: Keep your surprises simple and genuine. The goal is to show that you care, not overwhelm your friend with grand gestures.
Friendships are among the most rewarding relationships in life, and with a little effort and etiquette, they can thrive even in the busiest of seasons. By being intentional, understanding, and thoughtful in how we stay connected, we can nurture our friendships and keep them strong, no matter how busy life gets.