It's not uncommon for friendships to go through periods of distance or even have extended periods without contact. People's lives can get busy, priorities change, and maintaining relationships can become challenging. While a year might seem like a long time, it doesn't necessarily mean the friendship is over for good.
However, it's entirely up to you to decide if you want to rekindle the friendship or not. Here are a few things to consider:
Evaluate your feelings: Take some time to reflect on how you feel about the old colleague reaching out to you. Do you still value the friendship, or do you feel indifferent about reconnecting?
Consider the reasons for the hiatus: Think about why the friendship faded in the first place. Was it a natural result of life changes and busyness, or were there unresolved issues or conflicts that led to the distance?
Assess the potential for the friendship: Consider whether you have shared interests, values, and a history that makes reconnecting with this old colleague worth your while. Think about whether you would genuinely enjoy having them back in your life.
Trust your instincts: If you don't see the point in being back in touch and don't feel excited about reconnecting, it's okay to trust your instincts. You should prioritize your emotional well-being and invest time in relationships that feel meaningful and fulfilling to you.
Communication: If you're uncertain about the situation, you could have an honest conversation with your old colleague. Express how you feel and ask them about their reasons for getting back in touch. This conversation might provide you with more clarity.
Be polite and respectful: If you decide not to pursue the reconnection, it's essential to be polite and respectful in your response. You can thank your old colleague for reaching out and let them know that you appreciate the gesture, but you've moved on and don't see the need to reconnect at this time.
Ultimately, friendships evolve over time, and not all relationships need to be rekindled. It's entirely valid to focus on current friendships and invest time in building new connections that align with your present interests and priorities. If you feel content with your current social circle and don't see the point in reviving an old friendship, it's okay to make that decision and move forward with confidence.