There are times in every friendship when you or your friend are too busy to call or are more focused on other relationships. It will hurt, but it's rarely personal. Making it personal usually makes things worse, and being too clingy or demanding can drive a friend even further away. Like people, friendships can get 'overworked' and need to rest.

In this quote, Rachel Simmons highlights the natural ebb and flow that occurs in friendships. She acknowledges that there are times when either you or your friend may be too busy to stay in constant contact or may focus on other relationships, which can cause feelings of hurt. However, Simmons points out that these moments are usually not personal. They are simply a part of life’s natural rhythms, where people sometimes need space to focus on other aspects of their lives.

Simmons also offers advice on how to handle these situations without letting them damage the friendship. She warns against making things personal, as this can exacerbate the situation and create unnecessary conflict. By interpreting the distance or lack of communication as a personal slight, the situation can escalate, leading to unnecessary tension. Instead, she encourages understanding and patience, allowing space for both friends to regroup without feeling pressured.

The quote also touches on the idea that friendships, like people, can become overworked. Just as a person might get tired or exhausted from constant activity, friendships can experience periods of strain when demands or expectations become too high. Giving the relationship some rest allows both friends to recharge and return to the connection with a renewed sense of appreciation.

Ultimately, Simmons suggests that maintaining a healthy friendship involves recognizing when it needs a break and respecting each other’s space. It’s about balance—understanding that friendships require time and care, but also recognizing that periods of distance are natural and can be a temporary phase rather than a reflection of any deeper issue.