Apple Cider Shooter

That caramel vodka you bought on a whim once can finally be put to good use with this spiked apple cider shooter. Whip it up as a shot or a large punch that will last all night long. (via Brit + Co)

Root Beer Float Shooter

This soda shop classic gets an adult upgrade with ROOT, a traditional alcoholic Native American tea. And tea is healthy, right? ;) (via Brit + Co)

Rainbow Shots

Meet your new party trick! All five of these shots come out of one shaker. Prepare to amaze your guests with your bartending skills this NYE. (via Brit + Co)

Champagne Chantilly Shooters

Be sure to add these cake-inspired shooters to your after-holiday to-do list to start 2016 with a little bit of deliciousness. (via Sprinkle Bakes)

Champagne Jell-O Shots

Turn your champagne into a shot! If you’re hosting a large party, these are a way more affordable option than a case of champagne. (via Feast + West)

Blackberry Gin Shooters

This shooter is *almost* too pretty to drink. Plus, we can all pretend that the blackberries are doing you some good. (via Dine and Dish)

Butternut Rum Lifesaver

A shot that tastes like candy is a sweet way to start your year off right. (via A Year of Cocktails)

Tipsy Spritzer Shots

Not every shot needs to be super strong. If you’re looking for something you can enjoy throughout the night, this sweet, bubbly and tart “spritzer” shot is low in alcohol content and big on flavor. (via Holly’s Cheat Day)

Sparkling Jello Jigglers

Swap out champagne for the grape juice in this recipe to make a fancy, adult version of a JELL-O jiggler. Sprinkles and edible gold stars required. (via Bubbly Nation Creations)

Champagne Jello Shots

Awww, Jello Shots are all grown up in this festive recipe. They have a nice flavor that won’t leave you wincing afterwards. (via Broma Bakery)

White Chocolate Champagne Cheesecake Shooters

This shot is delicious enough to be dessert. Top yours with edible glitter sprinkles to get even more festive. (via The First Year)

Cranberry Kamikaze Shots

NYE calls for a fancier drink than a go-to beer or wine. Ring in the new year with cranberry kamikaze shots that look pretty and taste delicious (via Cookin' Canuck)

Banana Split Shooters

This shot requires five ingredients that'll send your taste buds soaring. I mean, what could be better than taking a shot of something that tastes like dessert? (via Tablespoon)

Sparkling Cider Jello Shots (Non-Alcoholic)

If you want to be extra careful not to induce a hangover when you wake up in 2024, your best bet are these sparkling cider jello shots. They're made with unflavored gelatin, distilled water, cider and your choice of berries, cherries, or gummies! (via Something Swanky)

​What to Expect in Your January Horoscope for 2025

January starts with the love planet Venus, phasing into the sign of dreamy and ethereal Pisces on January 2. Love will be dreamy—and it can unleash the hopeless romantic in all of us. This can ascend or dissolve your love story as this energy reveals the importance of compassion and mutual understanding in relationships. Selfless acts can only take you so far, and keeping your energy in check would be in your best interest. Any feelings of exhaustion and uncertainty are the sign of observing your relationship. Make room for adjustments as needed. Speaking of relationships, Mars, the other love planet that rules sex, backspins into the sign of Cancer on January 6. Remember that Mars retrograde is still underway, and it's extending lessons that involve patience and steadiness. With Venus and Mars in the water signs, we cannot help but feel aligned with our hearts and souls. Impulsivity and emotional extremities are a no-go. Take a step back and hold space for unresolved feelings. This period is essential for us to find safety and solace in love.

Luckily, our thoughts and ideas will begin to make sense as Mercury, the messenger planet, enters Capricorn on January 8. Our messages will be clear and concise. So, if you have been feeling a bit misty and unable to form your ideas since last month’s Mercury retrograde, expect the fog to begin to lift. You have the green light to brainstorm ideas or develop plans.

Something magical is about to begin. The North Node (AKA the point of destiny) officially shifts into the sign of watery Pisces on January 11. The last time the north node was in this position was in 2006! Think back to this time in your life and observe your standing that involves healing and self-compassion. For these next 18 months, this will be our chance to begin taking stock of being truthful and understanding of others. It’s time to align with your truth while making peace from the past.

Mid-month, the Full Moon takes place in the sign of Cancer alongside Mars in a close degree on January 13. This interchange can bring up feelings of impatience and frustration involving stagnant results. Remember that slow and steady wins the race. Full Moons are an incredible outlet for rest and letting go of things beyond your control. This Full Moon will be a wake-up call and a test of your will to be at peace with yourself no matter where you are in your journey.

Expect to feel a breath of fresh air or a burst in your bubble as the Sun enters Aquarius on January 19. Tangible results will shape you as you observe your position in society and friendships. Luckily, Pluto, in alignment with the Sun, will enable you to look at the bigger picture involving your aspirations and how you can optimize your energy for your greater well-being. It's time to either clear out or evolve your connections. The messenger planet, Mercury, then progresses into Aquarius on January 27, building traction with our future goals. Ideas may stir quickly these next few weeks, and you may have difficulty keeping up. Jot your ideas down and look back at your notes later. Your messages will take form once Mars goes direct next month.

This month concludes with the New Moon in Aquarius, which is in a beautiful alignment with Mercury and Pluto, on January 29. This stellar combination will breathe new life and infinite possibilities involving long-term vision. Witness a strength in your voice and will to step forward in complete confidence. This lunation extends this desired support as you let go of old baggage related to past regret or misunderstanding. Don't you think it's finally time to let go? Begin to manifest your dreams and note what has been holding you back from success in the past. Visualize your future and observe if your current surroundings support this next step in your path.

Key Dates For Your January Horoscope & Capricorn Season In 2025

• Jan 2—Venus enters Pisces
• Jan 6—Mars enters Cancer (retrograde)
• Jan 8—Mercury enters Capricorn
• January 11—North Node phases into Pisces
• Jan 13—Full Moon in Cancer
• Jan 19—Sun enters Aquarius
• Jan 27—Mercury enters Aquarius
• Jan 29—New Moon in Aquarius

​Which Four Zodiac Signs Will Experience Changes This January 2025?

• Capricorn
• Aquarius
• Pisces
• Cancer

January 2025 will bring incredible changes for four zodiac signs, each experiencing transformative opportunities. Pisces will feel supportive in love while tapping into healing, especially with Venus entering their sign and the North Node shifting into Pisces. The nodal shift offers 18 months of destined-filled moments in alignment with their personal growth and empowerment. Cancer will navigate deep emotional reflections as Mars retrogrades and the Full Moon illuminates the need to learn patience for their emotional healing. January is a time to restore and rejuvenate Cancers. Aquarius will thrive under the Sun and New Moon in their sign this month, unlocking new possibilities and long-term vision, empowering them to manifest their dreams with renewed confidence. Lastly, Capricorn will see its plans become a sharper focus as Mercury enters their sign, granting clarity and momentum for practical advancements in their goals. These signs are set to experience significant shifts, aligning them with their true path in the year ahead.

​Read Your Sun, Moon, & Rising Signs For Your January Horoscope

Aries (March 21 – April 20)

Theme: Clear the Air

Aries, you're about to enter a complete awakening in how you identify with family and friends. Reviewing your heart and genuine connections with Venus in the twelfth house this month will be of utmost priority. Love will feel hazy, and to find clarity, you must clear out your subconscious and face the uncertainties head-on. With the other love planet, Mars, retrograding your fourth house of home and family, your inner security begins to shake up, and this may be that time for you to explore uncomfortable discussions with loved ones. Talk to a therapist or a coach to help you find an outlet to clear the air involving past misunderstandings. Your work life will speed up as Mercury enters Capricorn in your tenth house. This period will be crucial for building confidence and certainty in your position with the public or your superiors. Develop your pitch and back it up with thorough research. Present your piece later this month when the New Moon in Aquarius powers up your networking sector. The North Node shifting in your twelfth house brings powerful experiences involving your inner life and dreams. These next 18 months will help you build up to a better version of yourself—your spiritual life will level up. Begin writing or developing a sacred practice involving meditation or art. A masterpiece awaits as you prioritize serenity and a quiet space in your daily life. The Full Moon in Cancer in your fourth house will close a chapter with your inner security and beliefs surrounding your family. Review your place in your domestic life or roots. It may be time to move or begin a home renovation. This lunation will reveal the core of your true happiness and the best approach for your family’s wellbeing. By the end of the month, the Sun, Mercury, and the New Moon in Aquarius in your eleventh house will feel like a breath of fresh air as you feel renewed and optimistic about your long-term aspirations. Attend a networking event or begin a group project—you will experience an a-ha moment. It's an auspicious time to discuss with those rooting for your success.

Taurus (April 21 – May 21)

Theme: Experience Your Wildest Dreams

Taurus, this month will be filled with infinite opportunities, but it will require you to take a chance. Venus, the planet that rules your sign, will beautify your eleventh house of networking and social connections. If you feel called to go public or begin collaborative ventures, you will start to live your wildest dreams as you share your vision! Mars continuing its backspin in your third house will create a snag with communication—but don’t worry, you're more than equipped to power through this challenge. In matters of engagement or expressing ideas, it has to be heart-centered and meaningful. Go with your gut and let down your guard to get your message across. The messenger planet, Mercury in Capricorn in your ninth house, extends publishing or travel opportunities. These next few weeks are all about taking chances and to dream bigger. Don’t settle. Here is the most exciting part of the month as the North Node in Pisces will reside in your eleventh house for the next 18 months. Friendships and social connections will be the focal point in your journey. It will also be serendipitous as you begin to give back to society. Take part in charitable organizations or begin non-profit work—and you will start to witness your dreams taking form. Mid-month, the Full Moon in Cancer in your third house closes the chapter involving an old skill or idea you once thought was a part of your dream. It's either time to complete this endeavor or make peace with letting go. This lunation can also be an excellent opportunity to have unresolved discussions with siblings or immediate family members—talk it out. For the last half of January, the Sun, Mercury, and the New Moon power up your tenth house of career and public image. This is a period to blossom and begin believing in your long-term goal. Discuss your ideas with superiors or take note of how you wish to live out your future dreams—take charge.

Gemini (May 22 – June 21)

Theme: Analyze Your Energy

Gemini, this is a month of personal and professional transformation and expansion. Experience a boost in your confidence with Venus in your tenth house of career and public life. You will find luck as you boldly express your worth at work. Present that pitch or launch your passion project. However, with Mars retrograde in your second house of finances, it’s crucial to reassess your financial situation and avoid impulsive spending these next several weeks. Learn how to budget and educate yourself on how you can invest effectively. It's time to build a nest egg. Then, Mercury’s move into your eighth house signals deep introspection around intimacy, shared resources, and personal transformation. It's time to get to the bottom of what holds you back from your desired changes. Investigate and observe your energy around your current situation. You will get answers this month. As the North Node enters Pisces, your career path is illuminated these next 18 months, guiding you toward long-term goals and a more meaningful professional journey. Analyze what makes you feel most elevated. That can put you on the right track. The Full Moon in Cancer brings closure or a shift in your financial situation, helping you let go of outmoded beliefs around money and self-worth. By the end of January, with the Sun, Mercury, and the New Moon entering your ninth house, you’ll be drawn to expand your horizons through travel, higher education, and philosophical pursuits. Mercury’s entry into Aquarius encourages you to communicate your vision for the future. At the same time, the New Moon invites you to set intentions for new beginnings, particularly around your long-term goals. Don't hold back and believe in your vision.

Cancer (June 22 – July 22)

Theme: Choose Your Path

Cancer, January brings a time of personal growth, relationship reflections, and expansive opportunities. With Venus entering your ninth house, your interconnectedness to life will level up. Broaden your horizons by traveling or exploring new methodologies. Seek new experiences that will open your heart and mind while deepening your sense of purpose. Remember, Mars retrograde in your first house beckons you to pause and reflect on your personal goals and how you present yourself to the world. You may experience delays or rethink your direction in life, which could signal a period of self-discovery and reinvention. Relationships will undergo review as Mercury’s move into your seventh house of relationships highlights communication within your partnerships, especially with close friends, your love partner, or business associates. It’s a good time to clear the air, engage in meaningful conversations, and strengthen connections. The North Node shifting into your ninth house sets the stage for growth and possibilities in the next 18 months. This shift will encourage you to explore new ideas, travel, or pursue higher learning. The Full Moon in your sign brings a decisive moment of personal culmination in your first house, illuminating your identity. Self-reflection and designating a quiet time will help you realize what no longer aligns with your well-being. As the Sun and Mercury enter your eighth house later in the month, your focus pivots to deeper, more transformative areas of life, such as intimacy, shared resources, and emotional healing. The New Moon in Aquarius invites you to set intentions around letting go of old emotional baggage and embracing transformation, particularly in your closest relationships. This lunation will allow you to set a new intention to attract powerful changes--take a chance and visualize your desired outcome.

Leo (July 23 – August 22)

Theme: Clear Yourself

Leo, this month brings a strong focus on how you prioritize your inner needs and relationships. With Venus entering your eighth house of intimacy, shared resources, and transformation, expect to feel a deepened emotional connection or a shift in your approach to intimacy. Nurture your most significant relationships and explore the hidden aspects of yourself and your partnerships. However, with Mars retrograde in your twelfth house, there’s a strong pull toward inner reflection and revisiting past emotional issues or hidden fears. This period encourages you to confront unresolved emotions and heal old wounds, setting the stage for you to do some soul-searching. Mercury’s move into your sixth house brings attention to your daily life and well-being. It’s a great time to organize your work life, improve your health habits, and focus on being more productive. Clear your workspace or start a health detox to get yourself on track. The North Node’s shift into your eighth house brings a long-term focus on vulnerability, your hidden self, and letting go of old patterns that no longer serve you. These next 18 months, you’ll be inspired to explore deeper emotional connections and make necessary changes in your approach to money. The Full Moon shines a light on your twelfth house, bringing closure to a personal or emotional matter lurking in the background. Release work or cord-cutting from unresolved dealings will help you make room for something better. As the Sun, Mercury, and the New Moon move into your seventh house, your attention turns to relationships. This is an ideal time to focus on your closest connections, whether romantic, professional, or personal, and to work on improving communication and balance within them. The New Moon invites you to set intentions for new beginnings in your relationships and to cultivate more meaningful connections.

Virgo (August 23 – September 21)

Theme: Find Your Center

Virgo, are you ready to witness a complete revelation? January is a month focused on relationships, creativity, and personal growth. With Venus entering your seventh house of partnerships, a desire for harmony and connection in your close relationships (romantic or professional) are in the works. Aligning with your heart by nurturing someone else will power up your purpose. You can begin by engaging in meaningful, heart-centered communication. Mars retrograde in your eleventh house prompts a reassessment of your social networks, friendships, and aspirations. You may encounter delays or disruptions in group dynamics, encouraging you to reflect on which connections support your growth and which no longer align with your ambitions. Mercury in your fifth house brings a boost to your creativity and self-expression. Whether through art, hobbies, or romance, you’ll be encouraged to explore your passions and embrace a lighter, more playful side of yourself. The North Node shifting into your seventh house emphasizes the importance of partnerships in the next 18 months, guiding you toward relationships that manifest deeper connections. The Full Moon in Cancer shines a light on your eleventh house, cultivating a turning point related to your friendships or collective goals. This is a time to let go of outdated connections or redefine your place within a group. As the Sun, Mercury, and the New Moon enter your sixth house of health and work, your focus shifts to improving daily routines, health habits, and overall productivity. This is a great time to reorganize your schedule, set new goals for your well-being, and streamline your work life. The New Moon in Aquarius invites you to set intentions for fresh starts in managing your day-to-day activities and taking better care of yourself.

Libra (September 22 – October 22)

Theme: Treat Your Body Like A Temple

Time to level up your health, work, and personal creativity, Libra. With Venus, your ruler planet, entering your sixth house of daily routines, health, and work, you’ll strongly desire to bring more beauty and balance into your everyday life. It will be a game changer as you focus on improving your well-being, beautifying your workspace, and creating healthier habits. With Mars continuing its retrograde in your tenth house of career and status, you may experience setbacks or delays in your professional life. Give yourself permission to pause and assess your long-term goals and approach to success, especially in your career and public endeavors. Mercury’s move into your fourth house highlights communication within your home and family life. Addressing any unresolved matters at home or making important decisions regarding your living situation would be ideal. The North Node shifting into your sixth house emphasizes the need to adjust your daily routines, health, and work life over the next 18 months. Focus on making practical and realistic changes that promote balance for your long-term well-being. The Full Moon in Cancer brings a moment of culmination in your tenth house, offering answers to where you stand with your career and its direction. This is a time to reflect on your career achievements and assess whether you’re on the right path. As the Sun, Mercury, and the New Moon illuminate in your fifth house of romance and self-expression, your attention shifts to play, passion, and enjoying life’s pleasures. As the New Moon in Aquarius lights up your romantic sector, it will set the stage for you to begin a new chapter in your love story while igniting your creativity. Book a date night or start a new passion project--the creativity will flow as you prioritize your happiness.

Scorpio (October 23 – November 21)

Theme: Explore Your Inner Child

Expect something new to emerge, Scorpio. January allows you to explore creative expression, personal growth, and home-focused reflection. Luckily, Venus enters your fifth house of love and joyful excursions--and you will feel a second wind to indulge your inner child. Let your hair down and set aside self-criticism no matter where you are in your journey. This is a great time to pursue creative hobbies, self-care, or deepen romantic connections. As Mars continues its backspin in your ninth house of higher learning and personal beliefs, it will bring delays in making sense of the bigger picture. You could find yourself overthinking everything. Just be and take note of what truly inspires you. Mercury's move into your third house brings attention to how you're conveying your message, learning, and your local environment. Engage in small talk, network with neighbors, or focus on local connections while learning something new. You will experience a breakthrough and understanding in time. Something more exciting is in store for you as the North Node’s shift into your fifth house opens doors to explore creativity, self-expression, and your love life these next 18 months. You’ll be drawn to explore your passions and feel things at a deeper yet joyful level. The Full Moon in Cancer highlights your ninth house and turns the tides in matters related to travel, education, or belief systems. You may gain clarity or conclude a long-term goal or pursuit. It's okay to let go and take a different path. As the Sun, Mercury, and the New Moon enter your fourth house of home and family, your attention shifts to your emotional foundations. This is a time to focus on your living situation and find tangible solutions to improve it. The New Moon in Aquarius invites you to set intentions for creating a more stable, nurturing home environment or making changes that support your emotional well-being.

Sagittarius (November 22 – December 21)

Theme: Time to Master Adulting

Things are about to get serious this month, Sagittarius. You're ready to fine-tune dealings involving your home life, values, and self-worth. With the love planet Venus entering your fourth house of home and family, you will create a more harmonious, beautiful, and nurturing living space for you and your loved ones. This is an excellent time to make your home feel more comfortable and emotionally sound, whether through redecorating, spending quality time with family, or strengthening your emotional connections. Mars continuing its backspin in your eighth house of merged resources, intimacy, and hidden realms of life will help you check off what you can do to improve these matters. There could be delays or unfinished business related to joint finances, inheritances, or emotional bonds. Hold still and reassess, especially in your intimate connections. Mercury’s move into your second house of money encourages you to focus on your finances, possessions, and what you value most. Work with a financial advisor or learn ways to increase your material security. The North Node shifting into your fourth house emphasizes a long-term focus on your home, family, and emotional well-being over the next 18 months. Stability and taking charge of future investment opportunities in your personal life will be your priority. The Full Moon in Cancer highlights your eighth house, closing a chapter in intimacy-related matters while attracting transformative experiences. Release old emotional baggage or address financial matters that require closure. As the Sun, Mercury, and the New Moon enter your third house of communication, set intentions that involve expanding your mind and engaging more actively with your local environment to attract your soul tribe.

Capricorn (December 22 – January 19)

Theme: Getting Close and Personal

How comfortable are you expressing your feelings, Capricorn? This month, you're in for major changes in your relationships, and talking will be your superpower or kryptonite. With Venus entering your third house of communication, learning, and social connections, you cannot help but be charming and will begin to connect with others on a deeper level. It’s a great time to engage in meaningful conversations, nurture relationships with siblings or neighbors, and explore new ideas. Mars retrograde in your seventh house of partnerships helps you slow down and reflect on your close connections, both personal and professional. You may go through misunderstandings or delays in these areas. Make things right if any blunders occur. Mercury’s move into your first house shines a spotlight on your confidence and ability to share your ideas. Focus on your desires and goals and express your intentions to the world--you got this! The North Node shifting into your third house these next 18 months will empower your voice and ability to grasp new ideas. Becoming comfortable with developing a new skill, learning opportunity, or project. The Full Moon in Cancer brings clarity to your seventh house of relationships. Let go of the past or unhealthy dynamics in your partnerships. It's time to decide whether to stay or go. As the Sun, Mercury, and New Moon enter your second house of finances and personal values, your intentions for fresh starts in your financial situation or approach to building long-term stability will be your central focus. This is your opportunity to cross off any lingering doubts and gain traction for your next steps.

Aquarius (January 20 – February 18)

Theme: Building From the Ground Up

It's time to pay close attention to your foundations, Aquarius. What makes you feel safe? It's a month of financial reflection and self-discovery. With money-attractor Venus entering your second house of finances, values, and self-worth, your material resources and livelihood will improve. Beginning an abundance practice will lead to results, but it starts with you reflecting on your relationship with money and your long-term financial goals. Mars continuing its backspin in your 6th house of health, work, and daily routines will help you observe areas that need improvement. You might find yourself revisiting old work projects or reconsidering your health habits, especially those that have been put on the back burner. Mercury’s move into your twelfth house lights up your subconscious mind and inner world. This is a period for deep reflection, spiritual exploration, and addressing hidden matters that need healing. The North Node’s shift into your second house emphasizes a long-term focus on building financial goals and discovering what truly matters to you over the next 18 months. This is a time to embrace your values and make practical decisions that support your future growth. The Full Moon in Cancer highlights your sixth house, closing a chapter with your work life or daily responsibilities. It's either time to ask for help or to say no if you cannot handle every task. Release old habits and prioritize self-care practices. As the Sun, Mercury, and the New Moon enter your first house of identity, expect your energy to pick up and confidence! It will be a powerful time to set personal goals and embrace a fresh sense of purpose. Set intentions for new beginnings, whether in how you present yourself to the world or your aspirations.

Pisces (February 19 – March 20)

Theme: Be the Artist of Your Life

Are you ready to live out your full potential, Pisces? January will be magical, with infinite possibilities and creative promise. You are a magnet as Venus enters your first house of identity and personal appearance. You are a living art as you express your unique self. Nurture and beautify yourself--book a hair appointment or update your makeup palette. Venus brings charm and magnetism, making it a great time to shine in social settings and attract positive attention. Mars retrograde in your fifth house of creativity, romance, and self-expression encourages you to revisit past creative projects, hobbies, or relationships. You may experience sluggishness or need to reassess your approach to love and artistic endeavors. Take your time, and don't rush the process. The social networks will energize Mercury’s move into your eleventh house of friendships, goals, and long-term aspirations. Engage more with your community, revisit past goals, or network to further your dreams. The North Node’s shift into your first house creates big changes in personal growth and self-discovery over the next 18 months. It's a time to step into your true identity while igniting the changes that will help you align more with your authentic path. It's your time to shine. The Full Moon in Cancer shines a light on your fifth house of creativity and romance, bringing closure or acceptance to past dealings. You may experience a creative breakthrough or make an important decision about a romantic connection or artistic endeavor. Trust as you let go. As the Sun, Mercury, and New Moon enter your 12th house of spirituality and dreams, your focus shifts inward and stimulates even more inspiration. Try dream journaling or meditation. Remember to rest. Quiet reflection, spiritual growth, and inner work will be medicinal for your energy. Set intentions for a new phase of self-discovery by planting a seed of your dream life. Your manifestation levels up as you let go of the past.

1. Finally schedule that lunch date you've been putting off

Have you written down a list of friend date ideas that didn't come into fruition this year? That sounds similar to our own sad plans that never left the notes app on our phones. One of the first things Murray suggests is to schedule a lunch date with your friend.

It's not a romantic situation, but simply an uninterrupted time where you and friend can give each other your undivided attention! You can talk about everything from work to reminiscing about the time one of you fell flat on your face in front of your crush.

2. Have a weekly FaceTime session

Technology has finally evolved to let us see the people we're talking to, friends and family included. It's a great way to connect with someone if you don't live in the same state or haven't seen each other in a while. " In the days of FaceTime and video calls, distance is not necessarily a barrier to friendships lasting for many years — and in some cases, distance can actually nurture relationships as it gives both people the space to breathe and live their lives," says Murray.

3. Vow to have phone recaps of your week to dish about your annoying co-worker or celebrity gossip

When life feels busy and you just need someone to dissect the latest Blake Livelynews with, you need a friend to recap your week with. Murray says, "Sometimes too much pressure to meet up in-person or integrate the friend into your day-to-day life can actually put a strain on the relationship, especially if routines or other relationships are not compatible with one another."

This helps you to stay connected to your friend without forcing each other to sit in a crowded bar just to strengthen your connection after work.

4. Surprise your friend with a birthday card

You can always give your best friend a birthday card in the mail, but planning ahead to have one show up in her physical mailbox is just as thoughtful! She'll enjoy that you decided to go the extra mile to send celebratory snail mail to her. Of course, you're free to still surprise your friend in person! Throw in a mini dessert and small gift to see your friend burst with excitement!

5. Snap a picture of a cute pair of Target shoes your friend has been eyeing

If you stop by your local Target and see the pair of shoes she won't stop talking about. Take a picture of them to let her know they're in stock and have her size. She'll appreciate you for thinking of her and may even Cash App you the funds to get them for her. Murray says doing this can "go a long way to show the other person that you care about your connection with them."

6. Verbally tell your friend how much they mean to you over dinner

After you've cooked your friend's favorite meal, sit down and tell that how important they are to you. "Affirmative statements like 'You are really important to me' and 'I value this friendship so much' can be things we tend to shy away from because they feel vulnerable," Murray shares, "but they can go a long way in solidifying the friendship and contributing a sense of closeness and security."

7. Be honest when you're unable to be 100% present in your friendship because work is super busy or you're having family issues

In a perfect world, we'd always have time for our friends. But things can come up that can derail even the most intentional person's friendship plans. It shouldn't be assumed you're a terrible person because you're unable to spend as much time with your friends, but communication is key.

"If something is going on with you personally that’s getting in the way of you showing up in your friendships the way that you want to, the best thing you can do is communicate. Even if you don’t want to talk about it, letting them know 'I’m sorry I haven’t been super present in our friendship lately, I’ve had a lot going on with family and I’ll fill you in when I feel more ready to talk about it' can help communicate to your friend that you’ve got something personal going on, and you’re not pulling back from them because you don't care," advises Murray.

8. Establish an understanding that your friendship may shift with different stages of life (i.e. marriage, having kids, relocating, etc.,)

This may be confused with a red flag, but it's not. As much as we wish we had all the free time in the world, life just isn't set up that way unless we're a part of the 1% that gets to make the rules. Even at that, I'm sure their attention is pulled in different directions. Murray says she understands this stage of life, however.

"When life gets busy, it can be really hard to find time to prioritize your friendships. And the older we get, the busier life becomes. As you get older, it is ok to acknowledge that you just may not have as much time for some friendships, and focus your energy on the few that matter most to you," she shares.

One of your goals shouldn't be trying to force yourself to make time for friends when things are super busy in your life. "When you spread yourself too thin, you can end up not really feeling connected to anyone at all," Murray adds. What she suggests you do is let "your friends know what's going on" or find a way to do "things that are less of a time commitment like sending a quick text or stopping by to say hi after work."

They're amazing "ways to stay connected if it feels at all possible" along with "inviting your close friends to participate in whatever is going on (maybe as a study buddy or on a double date with you and your new partner," according to her. All of these things create room for "feeling close even when life gets hectic!"