Making Time for Friends

Written by: Angela Esnouf
November 1, 2007

FriendshipsWhile sitting with friends over a coffee, I mentioned I had this article to write, and didn’t know what to write about organising and friendship. The answers came back thick and fast, and helped me realise that what I took for granted - catching up with friends - didn’t just happen by chance.

So, with thanks to my friends who always know how to help, here are some of the things I do to make time for my Friendships.

  • Firstly I make them a priority. I made a conscious decision long ago to make time in my busy week to connect. There will always be something to do - ironing, articles to write, family commitments - but connecting on a regular basis with friends is just as important to me.
  • We make plans to catch up over dinner. Our dinner parties are all about sharing good company. That’s why we each bring one course, sharing the workload and cost, and spending time together instead of in the kitchen.
  • We exercise together. You don’t have to choose between spending time with friends and doing other important things on your to do list. Combine them and you both benefit. Walk, swim, run or go to the gym together.
  • I have a cordless phone, and we chat while I weed the garden, hang out the washing or unload the dishwasher. I don’t do anything that takes my attention away from my friend’s conversation.
  • I remember birthdays. Mark special days in your diary. If you use an electronic diary it’s easy to add recurring annual reminders.
  • I’m on time for my friends. I show them how much I value them by respecting their time. No-one likes to sit around alone in a restaurant, so don’t leave your friend hanging.

How do you make time for your friends?

Angela Esnouf - Helping you become more organised, find more time and be more productive | http://www.thecalmspace.com/about#angela

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