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Friends typically don’t require the constant attention needed by romantic partners and children. That’s why small gestures that show someone we are thinking about them can go a long way toward nurturing friends who may not always get as much one-onone time as you’d both prefer. Here are some suggestions of small gestures for sustaining friendships.
Text a photo
How often do you see something that makes you think of a friend? It takes less than a minute to snap a photo and text it to them.
Bring home treats from travels
When I was traveling in Spain for work last summer, I thought of a friend who would appreciate the many gorgeous cathedrals there. I purchased a rosary and brought it home to her, a small act that I believe was the beginning of a deeper connection we now share.
Share a news article
You’re reading the news anyway. If something strikes your fancy, share it with a friend via text or email.
Stop by their desk
Don’t let work get in the way of your office friendships. It takes two minutes to drop by a desk and let someone know they are on your mind.
Feed your friends
There is something about a gift of food that makes us feel loved and cared for. A fellow volleyball mom often brought me a cup of soup or chilli to evening team practices, knowing I had come straight from work and hadn’t had time for dinner. To this day she remains one of my favourite friends even though our children have grown up.
Share a song
Choose a song you want to share with a friend. A large body of research shows that music helps foster deeper social connections.
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