Reach Out and Reconnect

Most of us have someone we keep meaning to call. The longer we wait, the more awkward it feels. Here is the good news: most people are delighted to hear from an old friend, and they have often been meaning to reach out too.

You do not need to explain the silence. A short, warm message is enough.

• "I was thinking of you today and wanted to say hello. How are you?"
• "I came across a photo of us and it made me smile. How have you been?"
• "This made me think of you." (with a link, a song or a picture)
• "I have missed our chats. Would you like to catch up soon?"

A clear, small plan works better than "we should get together sometime".

• A coffee or a walk, with a day suggested.
• A short phone or video call.
• Something you both used to enjoy, like a film, a market or a favourite café.

Name it lightly and move on: "I know it has been far too long. I would love to hear your news." That is all it takes.

I used to visit elderly people who did not receive many visitors. Sadly, older people are sometimes forgotten by their families and do not get the attention they crave. So I spent time with some of them, having tea and a chat. On a few occasions they asked if I would do a little shopping for them. It was very rewarding for me, and for them it was a pleasant visit.

If you know someone who lives alone, a neighbour, a relative or a friend of the family, a short visit or a phone call can mean more than you know.

Once you have reconnected, put a gentle reminder in your calendar to get in touch again in a month. Friendships are kept by small, regular moments.

Write down three names. Send one message today. Just one.