How has your social life changed compared with a few years ago?

B Natural answer

Compared with a few years ago, my social life is definitely more structured. Back then, people would text me at the last minute and I'd just go along with it. Now everything needs a bit more coordination, because work and family commitments are more serious. I still enjoy seeing friends, but I tend to keep in touch in smaller, more regular ways instead of doing huge catch-ups once in a while. I've also shifted from large parties to spending time with a smaller group of friends who I know really well. That change has been good for me, because the conversations are better and I don't feel drained afterward. Another thing is that I've become better at work around everyone's schedules, which sounds boring, but it actually makes a big difference. So overall, I go out less often, but the time I do spend with people is more meaningful and less random.

Key phrases in this answer

• keep in touch — stay connected with someone by talking regularly“I try to keep in touch with old friends even if we do not meet often.”
• smaller group of friends — a more limited circle of close friends“I spend more time with a smaller group of friends now.”
• work around everyone's schedules — plan by adjusting to when different people are free“It takes effort to work around everyone's schedules, but we manage.”
• way less spontaneous — much less likely to do things at the last minute“I'm way less spontaneous than I used to be, so I like planning ahead.”
• make a bigger effort — try harder than usual“If I want to keep friendships strong, I have to make a bigger effort.”
• selective about who I spend my time with — choosing carefully which people you give attention to“I'm more selective about who I spend my time with these days.”