What defines a romantic relationship - effort, feelings, memories, trials and tribulations, successes? Are these the same words used to define friendships as well? If so, those are strong words to define a strong bond between two people. So often in life friendships diminish, weaken or end completely. We are constantly being coached on how to deal with a broken heart or how to end a relationshi...

What defines a romantic relationship - effort, feelings, memories, trials and tribulations, successes? Are these the same words used to define friendships as well? If so, those are strong words to define a strong bond between two people. So often in life friendships diminish, weaken or end completely. We are constantly being coached on how to deal with a broken heart or how to end a relationship with a girlfriend or boyfriend, but what do we do when we need to dump a friend? Or worse, what do we do if we are dumped by a friend?!

We are always changing. Changing because of moving locations, meeting new significant others, finding new passions or discovering new priorities. Old friends that used to hold such a major part in your life can sometimes become a mere memory of how life used to be. Sometimes this happens naturally and there is a mutual realization that the friendship is not what it used to be. Unfortunately, other times, it does not happen naturally. There’s that uncomfortable, awkward realization that you have a friend that just doesn’t fit into your life they way they used to. Whether you met someone new romantically, cut down on a shared vice or have different priorities - this friend is guiding you in the opposite way of who you want to become.

The worst thing that can be done is cut off all ties. This is hurtful and in the long run will cause regret due to ending an important relationship so abruptly. Try to be honest. Admit you are changing and you cannot have the exact same relationship that you once had. Try to make time to stay connected, if only by monthly emails. This person once had a very important role in your life and they may be missed more than expected. If that friend reacts negatively, try not to let it affect you. Realize that relationships change; it‘s normal.

So, what to do if you are feeling a little neglected by a once close friend? Are you realizing slowly you aren’t hanging out like you used to, you aren’t receiving phone calls or invites as frequently?? Don’t let this manifest into anger and resentment. Talk to your friend and advise you’ve noticed a change in your friendship. It’s best to try to have that person open up and tell you what’s going on without making them feel defensive. That way they will tell you the change and it will be easier for you to cope with the adjusted friendship. Always value what you had and look forward to new relationships you will find.

In the event you are altering a friendship or being “dumped” by a once bestie, always remember to try to stay positive. It’s such a cliché piece of advice but it is true. Lingering on a lost friendship or stressing over a relationship that isn’t positive for you doesn’t help anyone.

Lindsay currently resides in Brooklyn, transplanted from Wisconsin. She has a passion for writing and can often be found blogging about random pop culture and everyday life on aaaandthatswhatshesaid.blogspot.com. You can also follow Lindsay on twitter @SweetTweetTV.