Best practices for making plans 😎

As we grow older, the dynamics of our friendships change. With busier schedules, responsibilities, and varying priorities, making plans with friends can become a challenge.

However, maintaining meaningful friendships is vital for our overall well-being! Let’s explore some best practices to help you navigate the complexities of making plans with your friends like a grown ass adult. 💪🏽

Be proactive and initiate

It's crucial to take the initiative when making plans with friends. Don't wait for others to always reach out to you. Take charge and suggest specific activities or outings that align with your interests. I like to keep a going notes list with fun ideas of things that I would love to do with friends.

Respect each other's schedules

We all understand that everyone has their own set of commitments and responsibilities. When proposing plans, flexibility and understanding go a long way in fostering positive and lasting friendships.

Instead of proposing a hard date, it may be easier to instead suggest a few dates that you are available and allow your friend or friends to vote on the best dates that work for each of them. Whatever allows you to set up a poll of dates and each of your friends can chose which dates work for them or suggest new ones.

Coordinate the details with the group

Whatever makes planning with friends so much easier! We can help you narrow down ideas of what activity to do with your friends, give you the ability to set a poll for dates, times, and place ensuring that everyone in the friend group has their vote.

Plan in advance

As adults, our calendars tend to fill up quickly. To ensure successful get-togethers, plan ahead. Set a date in advance based on the activity you are planning.

Some friends may love to grab dinner that night or with one day notice, but for concerts or other activities give your pals at least a week in advance. Planning ahead also increases the likelihood of securing reservations, tickets, or accommodations, particularly for popular events or destinations.

Be clear and specific

When making plans, be clear and specific about the details. Vague or ambiguous suggestions can lead to confusion or misunderstandings. Clearly communicate the date, time, location, and any other relevant information.

This level of clarity ensures that everyone is on the same page and reduces the chances of last-minute cancellations or no-shows. In a planning app like Whatever, your details and information all can be housed in one place that is easy to go back to and reference at any time.

Do activities with the group

While one-on-one time with friends is a fun time, group activities can be an excellent way to strengthen connections and create lasting memories. Plan group outings, game nights, or weekend trips where everyone can participate. Group activities often provide a more inclusive and relaxed environment, encouraging conversation and deeper bonds among friends.

Be understanding of cancellations

Life happens, and sometimes unforeseen circumstances may require your friends to cancel plans. Instead of harboring resentment or frustration, practice understanding and empathy.

Recognize that emergencies, work commitments, or personal issues can arise, and your friends may not always be able to follow through with plans. Maintain a supportive and compassionate approach, and be open to rescheduling.

Emphasize quality over quantity

In adulthood, time becomes a valuable commodity. While it's essential to make plans with friends, prioritize quality over quantity. Focus on creating meaningful experiences and nurturing authentic connections. It's better to have a few close and reliable friends with whom you share genuine moments than a large circle of acquaintances with superficial interactions.

Navigating friendships as an adult requires adaptability, understanding, and proactive effort. By following some of these pro tips, you can foster strong bonds with your friends, even amidst the challenges of adulthood.

Remember to take the initiative, respect each other's schedules, plan ahead, communicate clearly, and embrace both one-on-one and group activities. Just do whatever you want, ya know? Sign up for our waitlist and start creating plans with your friends 🙌