How to maintain friendships (even when you’re apart)

If you’re unable to see your friends in person, either because you live in different places or you need to keep your distance during the pandemic, there are plenty of ways to ensure they remain close.

Connect with them
Thanks to technology, it’s easy to keep in touch with your friends. You can chat on the phone, exchange text messages, hop on a video call, or play games together online. If you want to do something special, consider mailing your friend a hand-written letter and including a few photos of the two of you.

Show that you care
Even if you can’t see each other in person, or as often as you’d like, there are things you can do to maintain strong friendships. In particular, doing the following will let your friends know you value them:

• Spend distraction-free time with them

• Communicate openly and listen deeply

• Provide encouragement

• Ask for feedback

• Set and respect boundaries

• Express your appreciation

• Resolve disagreements and apologize if feelings are hurt

• Offer your help when needed

• Be honest but kind

Remember, it’s important to cherish your friends. They’ll be there to support you through the hard times and make the good times more meaningful.