When life changes, friendship does not have time to adapt
One of the most common reasons for friendship distance is the change in roles and living priorities. When each person enters different stages such as getting married, having children, changing jobs, moving places, the time and energy for friends is reduced.
According to Dr. Marisa Franco, a social psychologist, lecturer at the University of Maryland (USA), author of the book Platonic: How the Science of Attachment Can Help You Make and Keep Friends, friendship needs to be "proactively nurtured". She commented: "Unlike family or marriage, friendship has no obligations. When not prioritized, it is very easy to be pushed to the bottom.
Besides, differences in lifestyle and values also create gaps. One pursues stability and family; the other likes freedom and experience. As common stories become fewer and fewer, empathy gradually decreases, and maintaining connection becomes awkward.
It is impossible not to mention geographical distance. Technology makes communication easier, but cannot completely replace direct presence. Gradually sparse meetings make intimate feelings fade away.
Small cracks accumulate into large distances
Not all friendships fade because of circumstances. Many relationships break down due to emotional trauma that is not spoken out. Disappointment because of not being listened to, not being supported at the right time, or feelings of being underestimated can silently accumulate.
Dr. Irene Levine, a psychologist and honorary professor at New York University School of Medicine (USA), said: "Friends often break up not because of major conflicts, but because of a lack of sincere communication. When one side feels more giving than receiving, distance is inevitable.
In addition, comparison and jealousy are also sensitive factors. A person's success, happiness, or positive change sometimes inadvertently makes the other person feel self-conscious or left behind. If they are not mature enough to face this emotion, the relationship easily falls into silence.
Another reason is the change in communication. Interacting only through social networks, superficial or slow responses can create a feeling of coldness. Over time, emotional connections weaken, even though they are still "following" each other on the surface.
Finally, it is also necessary to recognize that not every friendship is designed to last forever. There are relationships that are only suitable for a certain period of life. Distance is not always a failure, but sometimes a sign of maturity and natural changes.
Looking at the right causes helps us to be less remorseful, and at the same time know how to cherish the remaining relationships. Because friendship, as well as marriage or family, needs understanding, proactiveness and continuous nurturing if you want to go the long way.
It's a bit of a bit of a bit of a bit of a bit of a bit.
