You know that moment when you realize your childhood BFF is now just someone you stalk on Instagram? Yeah, same. Making and keeping friendships that actually last feels like trying to keep a plant alive, doable, but somehow, you always mess it up.
But fear not! If you’ve ever thought, Why is my social life drier than my DMs?, this post is for you. Read on, because you don’t want to be the person who only has Netflix and their cat for company.
1. Stop Being a Ghost (Reply to Texts, Like… Now!)
We all have that one friend who vanishes like a Snapchat streak. If you’re thinking, Wait, I don’t have that friend, chances are, you ARE that friend. News flash: Friendships require effort. Respond to texts, initiate plans, and don’t be the person who says, Let’s hang out soon! but never means it.
Actionable Fix: Pick one friend you haven’t talked to in a while and send a quick “Hey, I miss you!” text. (And no, double-tapping their latest selfie doesn’t count.)
2. Stop Collecting Toxic Friends Like Pokémon Cards
Listen, if your “friend” only hits you up when they need a ride, money, or emotional support but ghosts you when you need them, cut them loose. Your friendship circle should feel like a warm hug, not a burden.
Actionable Fix: Write a list of your closest friends. Do they uplift you? Or do they drain your soul faster than a dead phone battery? Adjust accordingly.
3. Find Your Weirdos (Your People Are Out There!)
Your ideal BFF might not be sitting next to you at work, but guess what? They’re out there, probably watching the same niche Netflix show as you, loving the same memes, and crying over the same fictional characters.
Actionable Fix: Join a local class, book club, or online community (cough Facebook groups cough). Friendships don’t just happen; you have to make them happen.
4. Master the Art of Small Talk (Because Awkward Silences are the Worst)
Making new friends is like dating, you need to survive the painfully polite phase before reaching send-each-other-ugly-Snapchats level.
Actionable Fix: Instead of the usual, How’s the weather? (ugh), try: What’s the most ridiculous thing that happened to you this week? People love telling funny stories, and boom, instant connection.
5. Be the Friend You Wish You Had
Want a ride-or-die friend? Be one first. That means checking in, remembering birthdays (Google Calendar exists, use it), and celebrating their wins like it’s your job.
Actionable Fix: Do something kind for a friend today, just because. No strings attached.
6. Ditch the Friendship Jealousy (Yes, You Can Have More than One BFF)
If you find yourself side-eyeing your bestie’s new friend, breathe. Good friendships aren’t exclusive VIP clubs.
Actionable Fix: Instead of feeling threatened, invite the “new friend” to a group hang. Who knows? They might be your future brunch buddy.
7. Be Honest (Because Fake Friendships are Exhausting)
Tired of pretending to be someone you’re not? Same. Your real friends should love the messy, chaotic, unapologetic version of you.
Actionable Fix: Next time a friend asks, How are you?, tell them the truth. Vulnerability builds real connections.
8. Plan Actual Hangouts (No, Sending Memes Doesn’t Count)
Liking each other’s IG stories isn’t a friendship. It’s digital lurking.
Actionable Fix: Text your friend and make a concrete plan. This Friday, 7 PM, tacos. You in? Being specific makes it happen.
9. Set Boundaries (You’re Not a Therapist, Babe)
Being a good friend doesn’t mean being a 24/7 emotional sponge. If a friendship feels one-sided, it’s okay to step back.
Actionable Fix: Start small, next time you feel emotionally drained, say, Hey, I love you, but I’m feeling a bit overwhelmed. Can we talk about something lighter today?
10. Invest in Tools That Make Friendship Effortless (Yes, This is the Life-Changing Solution!)
If staying connected feels like another job, get a little help. Enter [XYZ Friendship Planner], the ultimate tool to help you schedule hangouts, set reminders for birthdays, and keep track of important friendship milestones.
Think of it as your personal friendship assistant, so you never forget a friend’s big moment again. And because you’re clearly someone who values friendship (since you made it this far), here’s a special 20% off code: BFF20 (but hurry, it expires soon!).
Final Call: Are You Going to Stay Lonely or Actually Do Something About It?
Friendships don’t just happen; you have to put in the work. So, what’s your next move? Drop a comment below and tell me which tip you’re trying first! Oh, and don’t forget to check out the [XYZ Friendship Planner] before your friendships start ghosting you.
