Use diverse communication tools and tactics to create deeper connections

Create a correspondence ritual to maintain your friendships
If you have friends who live far away, you can write them letters and postcards to make them feel special. Sending written notes is more personal than a text and a letter feels like a small gift to the receiver. Also, remember that each friend has their unique way of communicating. Some people don’t like spontaneous calls or texts during the day, so be mindful of their preferences when corresponding with them.

Send a letter in video format
If a friend is thousands of miles away, send them a video letter so that they can see your face and feel your energy. This is a good idea for birthdays and other special events.

Place your friendship on your calendar
In this digital world, you can use online calendars like Google Calendar to schedule phone calls, meet-ups, and group trips in advance. You can also schedule a “friend conference call” and have a meeting agenda that includes all the fun stuff you want to talk about.

Keep a shoebox of mementos of past and present friendships
Fill your shoebox with printed photos, handwritten notes, ticket stubs, postcards, or any little token that represents the great experiences you’ve shared with friends. You can then create a ritual where you sift through your shoebox once a year to remember the people and places you love.

Use social media to create stronger connections in real life
Use social media apps to find like-minded people and then meet up with those people in person instead of keeping your relationships online. When on social media, be open and honest instead of only showing people the positive highlights of your life. You can also tweet or post compliments about your friends to show them how much they mean to you.

Use technology to find healing in case you’re sick
If you’re suffering from a particular ailment (such as Lyme disease) that leaves you bedridden and feeling alone, join an online community of people who’re also suffering from the same disease. You can share experiences, treatments, and how you feel about your ailment. Joining such groups can help you avoid isolation and improve your physical, mental, and emotional well-being.