Starting a new relationship is thrilling. The excitement of getting to know someone new can make one want to spend all their time with them. However, it’s crucial to remember the friends who have played significant roles in one’s life.

Often, friendships can fade when someone enters a romantic relationship, as most time is spent with the significant other rather than friends. This can cause drama within the friend group, so before that happens, it’s important to learn how to keep both close rather than choosing which one to keep.

Balancing a new relationship with existing friendships can be challenging but entirely doable. Here are eight tips to help keep friendships strong while enjoying a new romance:

1. Avoid Being the “Disappearing Act”

No one likes a friend who vanishes as soon as they start dating someone new. While it’s normal to spend more time with a partner in the beginning, one shouldn’t completely disappear from their friends’ lives.

Friends will understand the need to bond with a new partner, but they’ll also appreciate seeing that they still matter. Instead of disappearing, find ways to involve friends in one’s life, even if it’s just a quick text or a casual meet-up.

2. Balance Your Time

It’s tempting to spend all free time with a new partner, but dedicating specific days or times to hanging out with friends can help. For example, designating Friday nights for dinner with friends or Sunday afternoons for a group activity shows that friends are still a priority.

By consciously dividing time, it ensures that no one feels neglected. This balance also allows one to enjoy different aspects of their social life, enriching overall experiences. Friends will appreciate the effort to maintain the relationship, and it will also provide a healthy break from the intensity of a new romance.

3. Stay Involved In Their Lives

Being in a relationship doesn’t mean one should stop being an active participant in friends’ lives. Regularly checking in, asking about their day, challenges, and successes helps maintain closeness.

For instance, if a friend is going through a tough time at work or celebrating a personal achievement, acknowledging and supporting them will mean a lot.

Additionally, staying involved in their lives helps one stay grounded and connected to the world outside the romantic relationship. This involvement also fosters reciprocity, where friends will likely be there to support the new relationship in return.

4. Address Jealousy Or Concerns

If any friends express feelings of jealousy or concern, addressing it openly and honestly is important. Acknowledging their feelings and reassuring them of their importance can help lessen their worries.

Sometimes, a little reassurance is all friends need to feel secure. By addressing these issues head-on, it shows commitment to maintaining strong friendships.

5. Schedule Regular Friend Dates

Just like planning dates with a partner, making plans with friends is equally important. This could be a weekly coffee catch-up, a monthly movie night, or a standing brunch date.

Additionally, these friend dates provide something to look forward to and serve as a refreshing break from daily routines. It’s a chance to unwind, catch up, and enjoy each other’s company.

6. If Possible, Combine Social Circles

Combining social circles can be a great way to include everyone. Introducing friends to a new partner and organizing group outings where everyone can interact helps everyone feel included.

Whether it’s a game night, a hike, or a casual dinner, combining social circles can foster new friendships and a more cohesive social life. This approach shows friends that their opinions and presence matter. It also makes it easier to spend time with both a partner and friends simultaneously.

7. Be There For Milestones

Being present for friends’ milestones is crucial. Whether it’s celebrating a birthday, congratulating them on a promotion, or offering support during a breakup, presence during significant moments shows care and value in the friendship.

These are times when friends need support the most, and being there strengthens bonds. Making an effort to remember important dates and events and showing up when it matters can make a big difference.

8. Don’t Forget About Solo Time

Maintaining individuality is essential for overall well-being. Even in a relationship, taking time for oneself is important. Engaging in activities that bring personal joy, whether it’s reading a book, going for a walk, or indulging in a hobby, allows for recharging and staying grounded. Solo time helps maintain a sense of identity and prevents over-dependence on a partner.

Remember, friendships have been there through thick and thin, and nurturing those relationships will only enrich one’s life and make a new romance even more fulfilling. Taking the time to communicate, prioritize, and show friends that they still matter is essential—because they do.