So, you want to start hanging out with your friends? Good call. Spending time with friends is good for the soul, yet somehow we're all spending less time together, making it harder to create and maintain genuine relationships. It's time to change.
Why bother hanging out?
Because it's awesome, that's why. Spending time together improves social health and creates meaningful memories that can move friendships from being surface level to more meaningful. If you don’t make an effort, you'll never have genuine friends who will help you in times of need. Participating in activities together builds closeness and safety in friendships so we feel connected to each other. So, if spending time together is so important, why are people doing less of it?
Well, blame it on the screens. Everyone is glued to their phones, and yes, you too. You're probably reading this on your phone right now. This screen addiction means you're less present IRL (in real life), reducing the opportunity for you to show up as your authentic self around your friends and create meaningful memories. Instead of hanging out, people text each other. A lot. Some don’t even text but they only like each other’s posts on instagram. What friend does that? This creates the illusion that people are more connected than they are. So, put down your phone (after reading this, of course) and start spending time with friends.
The Benefits of Spending Quality Time
Spending quality time with friends is like a magic potion for your well-being. It reduces stress, boosts your mood, and gives you a sense of belonging. Plus, having friends to share experiences with makes life way more fun. Here’s how to make sure those plans with friends actually stick:
Step 1: Make a Plan
Sounds simple, right? But you'd be surprised how often people say, "We should hang out sometime," and then it never happens. Be specific. Set a date, time, and place. And put it in your Friday Social calendar.
Step 2: Commit
Treat it like a doctor's appointment. You wouldn't bail on that, would you? In fact, you would probably double check the details and make sure you’re not double booked. Once it's in the calendar, it's happening. No excuses.
Step 3: Follow Through
The day of the hangout, remind your friends (because someone will forget). And then, show up. Physically be there. Not just mentally. Remember to put your phones down and pay attention to your friends too. Be mindful of your social etiquette, and use the Friday Social App to commit to uninterrupted time with your friends.
Hang out Ideas
Want to meet up with your friends but not sure where to go? Look no further! Here's the ultimate list of fun things to do just for you:
Indoors
Perfect places to catch up and have fun:
A Cafe Date: Catch up over a cup of coffee or tea. It's the perfect setting for good conversation and people-watching.
Shopping: Hit the mall or your favorite boutiques and enjoy some retail therapy. Plus, you can give each other fashion advice and maybe find some great deals.
The Movies: Dive into blockbuster madness with all the popcorn you can handle.
Outdoors
Want to reconnect with nature and touch some grass? These activities are for for you:
Picnic in the Park: Pack some snacks and enjoy the great outdoors.
Hiking: Find a trail and explore nature.
Sports: Get a group together for some friendly competition – soccer, basketball, frisbee, whatever floats your boat.
Stay In
Need hangout ideas for a rainy day? Here are a few:
Cooking/Baking Session: Find a recipe, gather your ingredients, and cook up a storm.
Book Club: Pick a book, read, and discuss over some hot cocoa.
Karaoke: Sing your heart out, no judgment.
Conclusion
At Friday Social we believe that It's time to spend some real time with your friends offline instead of staying in touch through social media. So, go ahead, make those plans, follow through, and create some unforgettable memories. Your phone will still be there when you get back. Promise.
Now, improve your social life, put down your phone and go hang out with your friends. Seriously. Go.