Sometimes life’s demands can make it hard to keep strong connections with others. Maybe you’re often busy or you recently moved farther away from family. Or, maybe the societal norm of being chronically online has you feeling disconnected from others. Whatever the cause, finding ways to keep relationships secure can feel like a challenge.

However, maintaining a healthy bond with your friends and family doesn’t have to be so difficult. There are many tools readily available for you to use, as long as you know where to look. Additionally, this gives you a chance to get a little creative and have some fun with friends again. Keep reading for ideas on how to strengthen your relationships.

1. Become Pen Pals

Want to travel back in time and remember the good old days? Get in touch with the past’s form of communication and pick up letter-writing with your loved one. A handwritten letter to each other is so special and requires more effort than a text or call. This is also a memento you both can keep for years to come.

While waiting for mail certainly takes longer than more modern forms of communication, receiving a letter feels more significant and unique. Whether you live five miles away or 500, sending each other letters can be an enjoyable pastime.

Up your letter-writing game by investing in some cute stationery. There are all sorts of colors, patterns, and images to choose from that will make your letters even more interesting. You can even decorate with fun stickers and stamps.

2. Send a Care Package

What’s more heartfelt than giving a gift to someone you love when you can’t be there in person? Especially when this gift is hand-picked, your special someone will know you’re there for them no matter what.

Try your hand at sending a care package, whether you craft it yourself or order a pre-packed one. Make sure to fill the box with goodies you know they love, like their favorite candy or a delicious-smelling candle. You can also put in things to do by including a good book or new board game.

Sending a care package is even more heartwarming when sent for special occasions or circumstances. Order them a get well gift basket if they’re under the weather, or a themed gift for an upcoming holiday. The receiver will be sure to love what you’ve put together for them!

3. Video Chat

In today’s modern age brimming with technology, use it to your advantage. It has never been easier to stay connected with loved ones, even if you’re halfway across the globe. And thanks to video chatting apps, you can hop on a call instantly and see each other face-to-face.

There’s something so much more meaningful about getting to see a person’s face while talking to them. This is what makes video calls better than regular, audio phone calls. Plus, you can show each other your rooms, outfits, or whatever you’d like to have them see. This modern invention is definitely a luxury compared to what used to be available.

Try to schedule regular video calls with your loved one in order to keep the connection as strong as possible. For example, make it a weekly event that you both look forward to all week. Just remember to put a reminder in your calendar so you don’t forget!

4. Host (Virtual) Game Nights

There’s something so nostalgic about getting friends or family together and playing board games. Playing team or strategy games can really foster a bonding moment for everyone involved. This kind of activity can bring your group to be present and in-the-moment, away from phones and social media.

Try your hand at hosting game nights with your family or friends. This could involve playing one game, either multiple rounds or a long one, like Monopoly. Or, you can play several different games for some variety. Alternate between card games and board games, team and individual, and strategy and no-brainer games. Have a shared interest in your group? Try having trivia night instead!

And speaking of technological advances, there’s now a way to conduct game nights virtually. Even if your crew is far away, you can still play games with them through the internet. You can find online multiplayer games that allow you to play in real time with others. Or, you can set up a video call and play a board or card game through the screen. Some board games even have mobile app versions, if that sounds easier for you.

5. Have Fun With Apps

If you have or want to bring technology back in the mix, there are several apps designed to connect you with others. These can range from playing games to taking care of virtual pets together.

There are many games in the app store that are made to have two or more people play together. Try a quiz game where your friends have to answer questions about how well you all know each other. Perhaps try a multiplayer competition, like Mario Kart Tour or Among Us.

What if you’d like a game that’s more relaxed? Consider downloading an app that lets you take care of pets with another person. Think of it like a Tamagotchi, but a 2024 version that you can share with friends. Some apps include: Widgetable, Pokipet, and Pengu. You’ll be able to care for a variety of cute animals with your loved one.

Put in the Effort

When building connections with others, the specific actions you take aren’t always the most important factor. What truly matters is the effort you put into nurturing that bond, which your loved ones will recognize and appreciate. However, as Candice Horbacz suggests, incorporating fun and creative experiences can help keep things fresh. Even small gestures can go a long way in showing someone how much you care.