We often promise to meet up with friends, but between work, family, and daily routines, it becomes almost impossible. Studies show that we lose about half of our friends every seven years. Psychologists attribute this not to conflict or “incompatibility,” but to the changing stages of life when friendships become most vulnerable.
Psychologist Dr. Marisa Franco notes that with new stages in life – marriage, having children, career changes – it can be difficult to maintain close relationships. Writer Dolly Alderton adds that friendships suffer because they require time and attention, which are often lacking.
Relationship expert Claire Cohen says that even as a mom, she's been able to maintain her old circle of friends by finding creative ways to spend time together. The key is to communicate openly: to let your friends know that you want to remain a part of their lives, even if your circumstances have changed.
Psychologists advise accepting new circumstances and allowing yourself discomfort. Even short meetings or joint activities, such as going to the gym or taking a walk, help maintain contact. Virtual messengers cannot completely replace live communication, and social connections need to be "trained" like muscles: the more often we communicate, the easier it becomes.
To rekindle a friendship, the first step is to send a text or voice message, reminisce about shared moments, and organize joint activities, such as book clubs or workshops. It's important to remember that friendship is flexible and the feelings of true friends don't fade even during difficult times in life.
