Friendship is one of the most beautiful relationships we experience, often offering a constant source of love, laughter, and support. But when your best friend starts a new romantic relationship, the dynamics between you can change, leaving you to navigate unfamiliar waters. It’s normal to feel a mix of emotions—from excitement for your friend to a twinge of worry about what this new chapter means for your bond.
Here’s how to maintain a healthy, balanced friendship while supporting your bestie’s new romance.
1. Acknowledge Your Feelings
First, let’s address the elephant in the room: it’s okay to feel a little off balance when your bestie’s priorities shift. You might miss the spontaneity of hanging out whenever you want or feel worried that your friendship is being sidelined. Acknowledge these feelings without judgment—they’re valid!
Understanding that this adjustment period is natural can help you approach the situation with more compassion, both for yourself and your friend.
2. Embrace Open Communication
One of the best ways to maintain your connection is by talking openly. Let your bestie know you’re happy for them and excited about this new chapter, but also express your desire to keep your friendship strong.
You can say something like:
"I’m so thrilled for you! I know relationships take a lot of time and energy, but I want you to know our friendship is really important to me. Let’s make sure we still find time for each other."
This kind of conversation reassures both of you that your friendship remains a priority.
3. Make Time for Quality Moments Together
As your best friend’s schedule fills up with dates, it’s easy to feel like you’re competing for their attention. Instead of waiting for an invite, take the initiative to plan meaningful hangouts—whether it’s brunch, a movie night, or a quick coffee catch-up.
Scheduling these moments ensures you’re nurturing your friendship while respecting their new commitments.
4. Set Healthy Expectations
Your friendship may not look exactly the same as before, and that’s okay. Adjusting expectations doesn’t mean your bond has weakened—it simply reflects the natural evolution of relationships.
Give your bestie space to explore their new romance while cherishing the time you spend together. When you approach the situation with flexibility, you’re less likely to feel hurt or overlooked.
5. Use Technology to Stay Connected
If life gets busy or distance becomes a factor, technology can help bridge the gap. Tools like Bond Touch bracelets allow you to stay in touch with your best friend in an intimate and meaningful way.
Bond Touch bracelets let you send gentle vibrations and touches to one another, reminding your bestie you’re thinking of them—even if you’re not physically together. It’s a perfect way to keep your friendship strong, especially during moments when schedules don’t align.
For example, if your best friend is out on a date or swamped with work, a quick tap through Bond Touch lets them know you’re there for them, without interrupting their day. It’s a small gesture with a big impact, helping to maintain closeness in a way that feels personal and special.
6. Build Your Own Life
While it’s natural to focus on how your friend’s life is changing, don’t forget to nurture your own interests and relationships. Explore hobbies, strengthen connections with other friends, or invest time in personal growth.
When you feel fulfilled in your own life, it’s easier to support your bestie without feeling like you’ve been left behind.
7. Celebrate Their Happiness, But Be Honest if There’s a Problem
Being a good friend means cheering your bestie on when they’re happy—but it also means speaking up if something feels off. If their new relationship is negatively affecting your friendship (e.g., if they’re constantly canceling plans or you feel ignored), it’s okay to bring it up gently.
Approach the conversation with empathy and a solution-oriented mindset:
"I know things are busy with your partner, and I’m so glad you’re happy! I just miss our time together and wanted to see if we can plan something soon."
Friendship Is Worth the Effort
Every relationship, romantic or platonic, goes through phases of change. When your bestie gets a partner, it’s a chance for both of you to grow as individuals while deepening your connection. By staying communicative, being intentional with your time, and using tools like Bond Touch to enhance your closeness, you can keep your friendship thriving no matter what.
After all, the best friendships aren’t defined by how often you talk or hang out—they’re measured by the love, understanding, and effort you both invest in each other.
So go ahead, give your Bond Touch bracelet a little tap, plan that next hangout, and remind your bestie: no matter what, you’ll always have each other.
---
👇 About The Other Half 👇
Thanks for reading this! FYI, The Other Half is brought to you by Bond Touch: the brand that has been helping build healthier and happier relationships through emotional wearables since 2017. Connecting over 1 million people globally so far and counting!
If you’re looking for a new way to connect with a very special someone, check out Bond Touch: a bracelet that lets you communicate through touch across any distance. Say it with a touch, stay in touch.
