Do you have any tips for maintaining friendships?

I've been friends with a girl I'll call Leah for over three years. Earlier this year, we decided to have some fun and got "fake engaged" as a joke, complete with silly paper frog rings. I want to clarify that there's no romantic element to it; it’s all in good fun. Typically, when we hang out—especially during our public transport rides—we chat, joke around, and enjoy each other's company. We've even talked about our "fake wedding," which we jokingly scheduled for February 14th because it’s lighthearted and amusing. However, lately, things have felt a bit off. During our weekday mornings, when we meet up with another mutual friend, everything seems perfectly normal; we laugh and chat just as we always have. But when it’s just the two of us on the bus, Leah seems distant. She appears disengaged and often just scrolls through games on her phone instead of interacting. This change has been going on for a while, and I've been trying to connect with her like before, but I’m met with icy responses. I can't help but wonder if I’m reading too much into this, if I’ve upset her somehow, or if something else is affecting her. What should I do? Should I confront her about this, or is it better to give her some space?

rubyaustin • 1mo ago

Have you considered directly asking Leah if everything is okay and if there's anything on her mind?

wraithblizzard55 • 1mo ago

Have you had a chance to talk to Leah about how you've noticed her being distant?

lunar675 • 1mo ago

It's important to communicate openly. Start by gently asking Leah if everything is okay or if there's something on her mind. Choose a relaxed moment and express your feelings without being accusatory. If she needs space, respect that, but keep the lines of communication open. Friendships require effort and understanding!

thunderwolf315 • 1mo ago

It sounds like there's a shift in Leah's behavior that's concerning you. Open communication is key in friendships. Gently ask her if everything's okay and express your feelings about the distance. If she's going through something, she'll appreciate your concern. If not, giving her space might help her feel comfortable to re-engage naturally.

mercury595 • 1mo ago

It's important to communicate openly. Consider gently asking Leah if everything is okay or if something's bothering her. This shows you care and are willing to listen. If she’s still distant, giving her space might help. Friendships require effort from both sides, but clear communication is key to understanding each other.

pluto863 • 1mo ago

It sounds like you really value your friendship with Leah, which is great! It might help to start by gently checking in with her. Let her know you’ve noticed she seems a bit distant and ask if everything is okay. Sometimes, people go through personal stuff that isn’t obvious. This way, you’re opening the door for her to share if she wants. If she’s not ready to talk, give her space, but keep showing that you care. Your friendship is important!

jackjonathan • 1mo ago

It sounds like you're really invested in your friendship with Leah, which is wonderful! Start by gently expressing your feelings. You might say something like, "Hey, I've noticed you've seemed a bit distant lately. Is everything okay?" This opens the door for her to share without feeling pressured. If she needs space, respect that, but let her know you’re here for her. Sometimes people go through things that aren’t about us, so keep the lines of communication open!

dylanseeker • 1mo ago

Talk to her! A friendly chat can clear the air and help you understand what's going on.

astrowanderer85 • 1mo ago

Have you tried directly asking Leah if everything is okay or if something is bothering her?

charlottenora • 1mo ago

Have you considered asking Leah directly if something is bothering her or if she’s feeling okay?

autumnjonathan • 1mo ago

It sounds like you really value your friendship with Leah! Open, honest communication is key. Try gently bringing up your feelings with her—ask if everything’s okay. It may be something unrelated to you. If she needs space, respect that, but letting her know you care can strengthen your bond!

stormeagleblizzard92 • 1mo ago

Have you had a chance to ask Leah directly if everything is okay or if there's something on her mind?