How to Rekindle with Friends as an Adult

After spending two decades abroad in multinational organizations, returning home can feel overwhelming. I felt it when I returned home from Johannesburg, South Africa. I was used to the friendliness, the easygoing part of people, the warmth and the "ubuntu" culture. I was used to getting a "Good morning" or a "Hi, what's up bro?" in the streets or "Sawubona, kunjani" at the cashier in the supermarket. Pick n' Pay was my favourite. Suddenly I met the cold and self-absorbing European culture I was not used to anymore. Being from Portugal would be easier as we Latinos tend to be warm and friendlier. I was wrong. I felt awkward and not in my place. I got time to adjust to the new reality.

If this is happening to you, you might find yourself without a local network of people and have lost touch with old friends. Rebuilding your network and rekindling your friendships while rebuilding connections is possible.

Here are some tips on doing just that based on my experience.

1. Reach Out and Show Interest

Rekindling a friendship starts with a simple message or call. Reach out to your old friends and show interest in their lives. Ask about their recent accomplishments, their family, or their work. Let them know you're interested in reconnecting with them and catching up on old times. Showing genuine interest in your friends' lives is the first step in rebuilding a meaningful connection.

2. Schedule Time for Catch-Ups

Once you've reconnected with your old friends, make a conscious effort to schedule time for catch-ups. Whether it's a coffee date, lunch, or dinner, follow up on your intentions and schedule a time to meet. Please put it on your calendar, and make it a priority.

3. Join Activities and Groups

Joining activities or groups is a great way to reconnect with old friends and meet new people with similar interests. Consider joining a local book club, a sports team, or a volunteer organization. It's an excellent opportunity to meet like-minded people and spend quality time with your old friends.

4. Plan a Reunion or a Party

Planning a reunion is a great way to reconnect with old friends you haven't seen in years. Coordinate with your friends to pick a date, time, and location that works for everyone. Make it a memorable event by booking a fun activity or planning a weekend getaway. A reunion is perfect for catching up with old friends and reminiscing about old times.

5. Stay in Touch Regularly

Maintaining a friendship takes effort and consistency. Once you've rekindled your old friendships, stay in touch regularly. Whether it's a simple text message or a phone call, keep the lines of communication open. Celebrate birthdays, holidays, and special occasions to strengthen the bond.

Bringing All Together

Rebuilding your network and rekindling your friendships as an adult takes effort and consistency. It is not easy, and it will be worthy. It requires a commitment to make it happen. Reaching out to old friends, scheduling time for catch-ups, joining activities and groups, planning a reunion, and staying in touch regularly are all great ways to rebuild your network and strengthen your friendships. So go ahead and put these tips into practice, and watch your social circle grow!

About Cas

Cas is a dad, a coach, a business leader and the founder of Bring The Best, a coaching company that inspires clients to create abundance in their lives and the lives of others.

You can talk to Cas here and follow him on LinkedIn and Instagram.