Here’s the 411 on keeping your homegirls close!

Trust us. We know all too well how difficult adulting can be. Whether it’s grad school, job hopping, apartment hunting, careers, kids, or marriage, adulthood can get hectic. With so much on your plate, it can be easy to lose sight of the things that matter most—especially your friendships.

CNN reports that after 25, adults begin losing friendships rapidly, and this decline in interpersonal relationships continues until your elderly years. In fact, studies have found that people of today are generally lonelier than generations before us.

So if you’re looking for long-lasting bonds or just wanna keep your day ones close, keep reading below for five surefire ways to maintain adult friendships!

1. Accept the Change

Recognize that your relationships with others are subject to change as you get older. Each new stage of your life comes with new challenges and responsibilities that typically don’t render as much free time as you had when you were younger, and that’s okay! So accept that you may have to change your friendship dynamics and embrace this new beginning!

2. Discuss Love Languages

Talk to your friends about their love language and what you can do to make each other feel loved and respected. For example, some people are more receptive to quality time, while others prefer long convos and everything in between. This discussion will make you aware of one another’s unique needs.

3. Small Efforts Matter

If you don’t have the time for a daily phone call or can’t afford to book a flight, fret not! There are much simpler ways to show your love and appreciation for your friends. Shooting them a sweet voice text or just leaving a compliment in their comments can go a long way!

4. Go Digital

Social media and the internet have made people more interconnected than ever, so take advantage of that. Post some throwback photos of you and your bestie, and tag them, letting them know you’re thinking of them. Set up a girl’s night via FaceTime.

5. Mark Your Calendars

No matter what, don’t forget those birthdays! Even if you haven’t spoken in a while, remembering someone’s special days, i.e their birthday, anniversary, Founders’ Day, etc. is a great way to let someone know that you care about them! Mark your calendar in advance and make sure to reach out when the time comes!

Are you and your college crew still tight? How have you maintained your friendships throughout the years? Let us know in the comments down below!