Relationships
Missing Someone? Reach Out With These 40 Text Ideas
Short, sweet, and not too sappy.
In this day and age, it’s easier than ever to stay connected with your loved ones. That said, it’s not uncommon to have a few relationships that slip through the cracks every now and then. If you’re looking for the perfect text to send when you miss someone, it can help to have some inspiration. Whether your bestie moved back home or your partner’s on a long business trip, missing someone can feel super lonely. Knowing the right way to express your feelings in a text can be intimidating, especially if you’ve never been one for words.
Yet Claudia Cox, relationship coach and text expert, says that if you’re missing someone, you don’t have to overthink it. “A simple text makes people feel important and not taken for granted,” Cox tells Bustle. “It decreases drama and instills a sense of security in the relationship.”
While you may wonder why your sister hasn’t texted you in a while, or feel weird about reaching out to an old roommate you’ve lost touch with, according to Cox, making the first move can nip any negativity in the bud. If someone’s been on your mind, consider these 40 texts a sign that it’s time to reach out.
Thinking about you, hope you’re well.
Cox notes some people are more inclined to share their feelings than others. If you’re reaching out to someone who isn’t super sentimental — or you’re not a gushy person — simply letting them know that you’re thinking about them can be a clear and concise way to reach out.
It’s been a minute! Would love to call soon.
While some people may love a spontaneous call or FaceTime, others may prefer the chance to schedule a time to connect. Let them know you want to call, and see when they’re free to catch up.
Still have that hot sauce you got me in the fridge. I think about you every time I see it.
If the person you’re reaching out to isn’t one for verbal affirmations, try thanking them for a gift they got you or remembering a time they helped you with a problem. “Some people may have different ways of expressing their feelings through non-verbal or written means,” Cox previously told Bustle. “They express how they feel through physical gestures, thoughtful gifts, or services. Think love languages.”
“[Insert song]” just came on shuffle. Wish you were here to jam with me.
Smells and sounds have a way of bringing back nostalgia like no other. Whether you hear your old favorite song in an Uber or smell the amazing Thai food from the place down the street, let them know something around you made you think of them.
Saw your promotion on IG, so proud of you! You deserve it!
In this day and age, lurking on someone's Instagram is expected. Whether they moved, tied the knot, or had another major life milestone, let them know you’re rooting for them.
Just got a drink at that old coffee shop we used to love. Is your coffee order still (insert order)?”
Nothing gets a conversation started quite like a question. An easy way to do this is to ask what the other person has been up to, or you could get creative and ask them something that demonstrates just how well you know them.
*An old pic* This popped up on my phone today, I was shook.
A picture is worth a thousand words. Whether Facebook gives you a time capsule post or you stumble across it on your phone, sending an old pic is a sweet way to open up a conversation with someone you miss.
What should we do the next time we see each other? I’m thinking we have a picnic.
A great way to combat missing someone is to make plans to ensure you’ll get to see them soon. Ask about what you should do the next time you see each other and make some fun plans you can both look forward to.
Every time I switch subway lines at City Hall I use that weird side staircase you showed me. Thank you for that, you were so kind when I moved here.
As Cox describes, some people are better at showing their feelings than talking about them. Think about something they’ve taught you or a lesson they’ve brought into your life.
Missing you today.
Rather than penning a super long message, just let them know you miss them. If there’s a specific memory on your mind, share that, too.
OK, I know I’m cheesy, but I already miss you.
It’s easy to get caught up thinking about how someone else is going to respond. Yet, Cox urges, you don’t want your texts to be dependent on the other person. If you’re feeling sappy — let it out. You don’t have to play it cool, especially when you’re in your feelings.
I miss your cooking, I just burned my third dinner in a row. Wish you were here!
Sharing that you miss something they’re really good at lets you know you’re thinking about them and remember all their good qualities.
When are you back in town again? I want to make a res at that fancy sushi place.
Asking the next time you’re going to see someone gives you both a timeline. Additionally, reaching out with something that you want to do shows that you’ve been thinking about them.
Hey, I know I’m not great at keeping in touch, but I care about you so much and I’m here for you always.
Reaching out to someone after a while can feel intimidating. But just addressing the distance and expressing how you feel can help everyone get on the same page.
FaceTime date next week? Would love to catch up!
Rather than exchanging small talk texts back and forth, simply asking for a FaceTime date or phone call lets you connect in real time.
No one makes me laugh like you do, thinking about that time in the Waffle House.
A compliment and a “Miss you” text together is a two-for-one special.
What is that thing you always order at Taco Bell? I have a craving and I’m totally blanking.
Asking for help or for the name of something is a great way to reach out to someone you’ve been missing. It allows them to give you a suggestion and opens the convo to talk about the last time you saw each other.
Tell me you miss me without telling me you miss me.
There’s nothing like an outdated TikTok trend to make everyone laugh. A light-hearted message says, “Hi, I miss you!” in a sweet but not overly sappy way.
I know you’re not one to get super gushy, but I think about you often and hope you are doing well.
If you’ve been meaning to reach out or have someone on your mind, reminding them that you care about them can make you both feel connected. “Many people mistakenly assume their loved ones know they love them,” Cox says. “A simple text removes question marks and assures them.”
Just walked by that restaurant we used to love, and that waiter is still there. Should we grab a bite to eat soon?
A message like this can be extremely effective because not only are you referencing an old memory, but you’re also making plans for the future.
How long has it been since we last saw each other? We have to catch up sometime!
Don’t be afraid to address the elephant in the room and confront your lack of communication head on. This can help take the awkwardness out of the conversation, and make everyone feel comfortable.
Haven’t heard from you in a while. Everything OK?
It’s easy to lose touch with someone when they’re going through something. If you’ve noticed your extremely online bestie has gone radio silent on social media, it might be a good idea to reach out and let them know you’re available to chat if they need.
I’m watching a Real Housewives marathon and thought of you.
Shared interests are a great way to start a conversation with someone. And with a rich topic like reality TV, there’s always something to talk about.
So, when are you going to come visit me?
Real friends will appreciate how forward this question is.
It’s been too long! Any major life updates I should know about?
Busy schedules have a tendency to come between friendships, but you can squeeze in a quick catch up that doesn’t require any prior planning by cutting right to the chase.
Does that invitation for a trip to come see you still stand?
This shows the other party that you’re interested in investing time in your friendship, and it gives you an excuse to travel.
I saw [insert favorite artist] just released a new album. What are your thoughts?
When in doubt, you can always skip the icebreakers and get to the meat of the conversation.
Do you have any free time for a catch up call next week? I know work can be hectic!
We all have that one friend who works seriously long hours, and scheduling time to catch up can feel like yet another thing they have to plan. Remember to be sensitive about their busy schedule, and be mindful of their free time (or lack thereof) when making plans.
I saw on IG that you moved! How are you liking the new place so far?
If you can’t be there for an IRL housewarming, the least you can do is ask your friend how the move went and how they’ve been settling in.
Sending you good vibes today and always.
You don’t need to have a reason to send a sweet and thoughtful text like this to your friends.
*Insert meme* I know you love a good meme so I thought I’d share.
Sending memes is basically its own love language at this point, which is why sharing a funny TikTok or a relatable post on X is a great way to break the ice after a long period of no communication.
In bed by 9 p.m., thinking of all the wild nights we used to have. How did we do it?
There’s nothing better than a walk down memory lane with an old friend.
I miss you so much! How do we fix that?
If you’re trying to reconnect with someone who’s known for having a decidedly busy schedule, you can always put the ball in their court and get their availability before making plans.
Just saw your latest IG post and it made me realize how much I miss you!
Sometimes all it takes is an Instagram Story to remind you of all the good times.
*Insert inside joke*
What were inside jokes invented for, if not for texting them to your friend out of the blue?
Catching up over dinner isn’t enough – we need to have a sleepover soon.
You’re never too old for a sleepover, so consider making plans to do so with a friend who used to spend the night at your house every weekend for old time’s sake.
We need to get together ASAP, there’s so much tea I need to tell you.
There’s no better way to get someone’s attention than to tell them you’re sitting on some juicy gossip, and it guarantees you’ll have something to talk about during your next catch up.
Are you around to catch up soon? I can come to you if it’s easier – I’ll even bring snacks!
Nothing says “I miss you” quite like a bag of Tostitos.
Let me know next time you’re in town! I’d love to see your face soon.
Making plans with someone can be a challenge when you don’t live in the same city, but if they visit often for work or to see family, be proactive and let them know you’d love to see them next time they come around.
Miss you! Promise me we’ll never go this long without talking again?
It takes two people to maintain a friendship, but making a pact to nurture your relationship is a good way to ensure you’ll always be in each other’s lives.
Experts:
Claudia Cox, relationship coach and text expert
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