You Need to Make Time for Your Friends. Here’s How.

This is Day 3 of the 5-Day Friendship Challenge. To start at the beginning, click here.

One of my favorite running middle-aged jokes on TikTok and Instagram involves two busy parent friends trying to make plans.

You know the script: “Are you free next week?” one mom shouts into her earbuds while driving car pool.

“No, I have four dance recitals, two block parties and 67 soccer games to attend,” the other mom answers, stirring a pot of chili while answering a work email.

“Next month?”

“No, we’re finally taking that vacation we’ve put off for 10 years.”

And on it goes, until they finally settle on a date in late 2026.

Making plans to socialize with friends can be challenging, no matter what stage of life you are in, said Kasley Killam, a social scientist and the author of the forthcoming book “The Art and Science of Connection.” That is why she believes that one of the best things you can do to prioritize your social health is put your friendships on autopilot by scheduling regular opportunities for connection.

“It’s about automating the logistical sides of our friendships so that we can just be present,” she said. “It ties into the fact that friendships — and all of our relationships — blossom the most when there are consistent touch points.”