How to Keep In Touch With Friends

Time and distance may separate and change friendships, but they don't have to fizzle. If you're creative and committed, you'll find ways to keep in touch with your friends, even ones who live far away.

Instructions

1. Make a commitment to call each of your friends at least once a month. If it's helpful, mark your calendar. After you've spoken with a friend, note on your calendar the day you spoke to them. Next month, when you feel like it's been forever since you spoke to that person, you'll know immediately how long ago it actually was.

2. Remember birthdays. Keep track of your close friends' birthdays, and commit to at least sending them a birthday card, if not an actual birthday phone call. Even better: send flowers or a surprise through the mail.

3. Update your address book with current addresses and phone numbers regularly. When it comes time to make calls or send out holiday cards, you'll be able to immediately reach your friends.

4. Take advantage of e-mail. Quick and accessible, e-mail is a great way to send a quick note to a friend. In addition, it's a wonderful way to make lunch plans or get the details of an upcoming weekend trip.

5. Mark the moments you wish you could be there for friends, even when you physically cannot. If you miss a wedding or a friend is a new parent, send a note or thoughtful gift to wish them the best.

6. Plan annual get togethers. Whether it's yourself and a best friends or a circle of friends who are now scattered across the country, make it a point to make regular plans for time that you can spend together. You can make it for spouses and children, if they exist, or simply have a weekend together.