11 Tips on Staying Connected With Family and Friends

Staying connected with family, friends, and communities can sometimes be a full-time job. It's hard to remember to call Aunt Ella when you get home from work late to find the chicken still in the freezer. Sometimes a schedule is needed to make time for connection with the people that are important to you. Whether you have the time to sit down and call Aunt Ella to hear about her knee surgery or all you can manage is a simple get-well soon gift, here are a 11 ways you can bridge the gap and connect with the important people in your life.

How to connect with loved ones near and far

• Make a list of 10 people you've been meaning to call — then actually do it.
• Choose to video chat or talk over the phone instead of texting. Seeing their face or hearing their voice will help you both feel more connected.
• Send a complimentary e-card — “just saying 'hi.'"
• Take your dog for a walk. They deserve extra connection too! Some of them even deserve their own gift basket.
• Call a neighbor or distant relative, just to see how they're doing.
• Write a hand-written letter to an old friend.
• Send a prepared meal to a friend in need (the best kind of mail is the kind you can eat).
• Focus on quality time with your immediate family. Cook dinner together and try a new recipe, or plan a movie night.
• Set up a regular video chat with a friend who you want to stay better in touch with.
• Start a virtual book club.
• Take time to connect with yourself — take a walk, follow along with an at-home workout, meditate, or relax with a book or favorite TV show.

How are you staying in touch? Show us how you're connecting by sharing on social media and tagging us with #sharemore.