Before we have kids and settle down in relationships, our friends are everything. We spend most of our spare time with them, confiding in them and enjoying their company. Good friends get us through tough times and help us enjoy the good times. Unfortunately, one side effect of starting a family is that we don’t have as much time for our friends. The best friends will stick by you. They’ll happily spend time with your children and be happy for you as your life evolves. But even with the very best friends, relationships take work. Neglect your friendships and they’ll start to deteriorate. Here are some tips to help you maintain your friendships as a busy working mom.
Let Some Go
The first thing that you need to do is accept that not all friendships are made to last. Some friendships are for a particular time in our lives and do not withstand changes. Some of your best friends from your single life won’t stick around – and that’s ok. Trying to cling to friendships that you have outgrown means that you’ve got less time for the people that matter.
Make a Regular Arrangement
The best way to maintain friendships is to get into a routine. Have a once a month booking at a restaurant that’s convenient for your friendship group, or for you and a particular friend. Somewhere that offers the best brunch Bedfordshire has to offer, as well as a relaxed and friendly atmosphere that makes it easy to chat. Yes, there’ll be times one of you has to cancel, but if it’s a regular arrangement, it’s easier to organise and stick to.
Embrace Technology
Of course, friendships are the best face to face. We laugh the most when we are sat with our close friends. But as a busy mom, that’s not always possible. Don’t underestimate the importance of a quick WhatsApp check-in or a longer video call. Speaking to each other is important for maintaining your relationship, no matter how you do it.
Multitask
Instead of trying to find free time to spend with your friends, why not see them while you are doing other things? Go for a walk together to get your steps in or find a gym that’s convenient for you both. Get your hair cut or give blood at the time so you can chat while you are in the chair. You can even enroll your children in the same classes so you can chat in the waiting room.
Enjoy Family Activities Together
If you have friends with children of a similar age, try to make occasional plans together. Even quick visits to the park or weekend walks and picnics can mean that you see your friends more.
If your friends don’t have children, invite them anyway. Good friends will want to spend time with your children but may not know how to ask. Make the first move.
Be a Good Friend
Support your friends. Be there when they need you, but also take the time to support their businesses and families. They’ll appreciate it and do the same for you.
Maintaining friendships is always hard when you are busy, but it’s even harder when you have kids who you will always put first. Get into good habits, and make sure your friendships are a priority, and you can still have great friendships as a mom.