There’s that sinking feeling of being unwanted by a friend—like a fleeting fling that’s lost its spark. You find yourself sitting, phone in hand, waiting for it to buzz with new weekend plans. Instead of taking the reins, you fall into the habit of relying on your friend to reach out and organize everything.
We live in an age where texts come quickly but feel all too temporary, and social media often focuses more on performance than meaningful connection. If you’re waiting for your friends to make the first move, you might unknowingly slip into a cycle of disconnection. The truth is simple: don’t wait around for others to reach out—take the initiative, grab your phone, and make plans yourself!
The myth of “I should reach out to them first”
There’s a growing stigma of feeling like you are overstepping if you are the first to reach out. The other person on the line could also feel the same way – fear of rejection. It’s a heavy pill to swallow but reminding yourself that you are worth having fun with if your friend declines you? No worries, move on!
We’ve all been there. You’re thinking about a friend, wondering how they’re doing, or feeling the urge to catch up. But then you stop yourself: What if they don’t want to talk? What if I’m interrupting their busy life?
This kind of hesitation can be rooted in overthinking. In reality, your friends likely feel the same way you do—wondering if they should reach out to you first. It is important to note that life gets busy as we grow and fill our plates. Both of you are probably waiting for the other to make the first move. This back-and-forth can leave weeks, or even months, go by without meaningful communication.
Why its Important to Reach Out
Waiting for a friend to reach out first can leave you feeling disconnected and it can also make your friend feel like they’re the only one putting in the effort. So don’t be afraid to make the first move.
Reach out when you’re thinking of someone, even if it’s just to say hello. Your friend will appreciate it, and you’ll be reminded of how important those connections truly are! Remember, a simple call, text or message can mean the world to someone, and you’ll never know unless you take the first step.
Next time you find yourself hesitating to reach out, catch up with them! The phone call is always worth it, and your friendship is worth the effort.
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