Little Things Count. You don't have to see the people you love every day in order to stay connected. Set up "phone dates" with your friends. Set aside a standing time each week with your parents and friends, and then keep a checklist of things to tell them next to your bed. It will help strengthen your friendship.

Tackle the Tough Stuff. The first step in having a difficult conversation with another person is taking the time to actually have the talk. Instead of grabbing them on the way out the door or trying to chat during a ten-minute car ride, set aside some time for your talk. Maybe ask them to dinner or lunch.

Be Old Fashioned. Don't forget about old-fashioned "snail mail." Writing letters and sending a specially selected card, whether for a birthday, holiday, or for no reason at all, can be quite touching.

Stay Connected. Set aside a certain night of the week to get together with your friends for dinner and a movie. If you and some of your friends work nearby, set up a lunch date once a month.

Investigate. Always ask questions when starting a conversation with someone new. Don't just ask questions that have a simple "yes" or "no" answer.

Look Sharp. You'll never get a second chance to make a first impression. Be yourself and don't try too hard to make people believe you're something you're not.