How to Keep Old Friends a Long Time

Ever notice how some people manage to keep friendships going even when their life changes? How do you keep in touch with friends who aren't part of your life anymore? Old friends are the best friends. Wouldn't you love to keep all your good friends until they got to be old friends?

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Maintain contact. Don't just wait for them to call. If your friend and you had a special bond, all it will take is a little reminder of your existence, even if it's just once a year.
2. Forgive and forget. Don't be too judgmental or you might justify your way to no friends at all. If you were really close, and they haven't married your ex, make a call. You might find some things just don't matter so much after five years, if it means you can talk to one of your favorite people again.
3. Remember birthdays. Sometimes it is easier to remember a friend's birthday than a relative's. If not, record birthdays on a calendar. There is even software that will send you a reminder. If you are too busy to get a card, email works, so does voice mail and text messaging. There is something about hearing from old friends on a birthday that makes a person feel pretty special.
4. Find them. If you have lost touch over the years for whatever reason, look them up and re-establish contact. There are many directories available on the Internet. If you can't find them, find their family members and leave them your contact information.
5. Decide to make the friendship a priority. Just like exercise and family time. That means they get a space in your daytimer. Consider it personal development time. It's good for you to have old friends.