Losing and creating new friendships is part of life. And, we are fine with it, for the most part. But the thing is; what if you’re sitting on your couch and realise that you’re missing an old friend?
Look at friendship like a plant. You need to be intentional, make sacrifices, and put in time and love to make it grow. If you starve a friendship of the necessary nutrients, it’s bound to die.
The good thing is that you can revive a dying friendship before it’s too late. But this takes hard work and intentionality.
So, in this post, we’ll look at different ways to rekindle that friendship and save it from dying. But first…
Should You Rekindle That Friendship?
“20 children cannot play together for 20 years” is a Yoruba proverb that describes how life is. Not every friendship will endure indefinitely.
Therefore, consider whether you still desire the friendship in the first place before considering rekindling a dying one. Is it anything to fight for? Did they improve you as a person?
Perhaps you should stop the friendship as it is if your response is “No.” However, if the answer is “Yes,” then you should read the next section.
How to Rekindle that Friendship
Now that you’ve decided that the friendship is worth it, let’s look at how you can revive it.
Reach Out
Make the first move by reaching out to that friend. It could be a casual message, text, or phone call. But, make sure it’s a medium they’re comfortable with.
Apologise If Necessary
If you guys had a fight that caused the rift, acknowledge your part in it and offer a sincere apology. Take full responsibility and don’t make any excuses.
Once you get over that part, focus on moving forward. No need to dwell on past negativity — it won’t help rebuild your friendship.
Show Genuine Interest
Inquire about their life and pay close attention to what they have to say. Be sincere in your interest in them. You can also share with them the details of your life’s events. However, try not to divulge too much information or make the talk all about you.
Put in Time and Effort
You might offer to get together in person or even over a video call to catch up. Give them the option. If you two decide to meet up in person, schedule enjoyable activities. Or, carry out an old ritual between the two of you.
That’s not where it ends. Make sure you stay in regular contact with them. even if it’s only a brief “hi.”
Give It Time
Rebuilding a friendship requires patience and time, so keep that in mind. It won’t happen instantly for everything to return to “normal.” Rather, prioritise reigniting that relationship initially.
Additionally, communicate with them honestly and transparently. Express your feelings to them, and hear them out without passing judgement.
Respect their decisions and their boundaries as well. Respect your friend’s decision and move on if they aren’t ready to get back in touch.
Conclusion
There you have it! You now know how to rekindle that dying friendship.
However, remember that not all friendships can be salvaged. Plus, you need to respect your friend’s boundaries and feelings when you’re rebuilding that connection.
So, reach out to that friend then apologise, if necessary. Also, show genuine interest in them, put in the time and effort, and give it as much time as needed.
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