People forgetting their old friends as they meet new friends is a common phenomenon that can be attributed to various psychological and social factors. Some of the reasons include:
Limited time and energy: As individuals make new friends and engage in new social circles, their time and energy become divided. Maintaining multiple friendships can be challenging, especially when they have other commitments like work, family, or other interests.
Changing priorities and interests: People evolve over time, and their interests and priorities might shift. As individuals grow and develop, they might find that they no longer share the same passions or values with their old friends, leading to a natural drifting apart.
Proximity and accessibility: Physical proximity plays a significant role in maintaining friendships. If people move to different locations, it becomes harder to spend time together, leading to a gradual weakening of the bond.
Social identity and validation: Being part of a new social group might provide a sense of belonging and validation that people seek. As they find acceptance and shared experiences with new friends, they may distance themselves from their old friends if they perceive them as less supportive or less aligned with their current self-image.
Novelty and excitement: Meeting new people can be exciting, as it brings new experiences, perspectives, and opportunities for personal growth. This novelty factor can sometimes overshadow existing friendships.
Life transitions: Major life events like starting a new job, going to college, or entering a new relationship can lead to significant changes in one's social circle. During these transitions, people may naturally drift apart from old friends and form new connections with others who share their current life circumstances.
Conflict and unresolved issues: Sometimes, conflicts or unresolved issues with old friends can contribute to distancing. If there are unresolved tensions or negative experiences, individuals might prefer to avoid the discomfort by focusing on new friendships.
Communication breakdown: As people get busier or their interests diverge, communication between old friends may decrease, further exacerbating the fading of the friendship.
It's important to note that while people may forget or drift apart from old friends, it doesn't necessarily mean they don't value those relationships. Life is dynamic, and friendships often ebb and flow as individuals navigate different stages and experiences. Some old friendships may rekindle later in life, while others may remain fond memories. Building and maintaining meaningful connections require effort and communication from both parties involved.