13 Signs That You Need More Free Time

You Haven't Talked to Your Best Friend in Weeks

It's an irony—the first relationships to go are usually the ones we take for granted, which are usually the ones that are actually most important to us. A good sign you're too busy is when you haven't had a recent downtime chat with your best friend or closest family member (even as your calendar is packed with social engagements). If your chats with your closest friend are starting to feel like rushed downloads instead of real conversation, slow down and make more time to reconnect—you'll be happier for it.

Try this: Write down the top ten most important people in your life and how long ago you last connected with each. How often do you wish you could talk to them? Go to your calendar and schedule in regular reminders to catch up with each person. And stay off email—even if you end up just leaving a nice voice message hello, hearing a voice helps us stay better connected.