There’s something special about sibling relationships. These are the people who’ve seen you in pajamas on Christmas morning, stood by you during awkward school years, and shared inside jokes no one else would understand.
But as life speeds up – careers, kids, moving to new places – it’s easy to drift apart, sometimes from worldview changes, but often simply because of life’s natural busyness.
The good news? Strengthening your bond with your siblings as adults can be one of life’s greatest joys. Whether your relationship has always been easy or you’ve just grown distant over time, here’s how to deepen that connection and build a lasting friendship.
1. Celebrate the good foundation you already have
If you grew up as friends or simply got along well, that’s a gift worth preserving. Don’t take it for granted – lean into it. The beauty of adult sibling friendships is that you already share a foundation of history, humor, and family memories.
Tip: Text your sibling just to say, “Grateful for you. I love that we can always pick up where we left off.”
2. Make space for life’s changes
Life seasons bring change – marriage, kids, moving, career shifts. Recognizing this makes relationships healthier. Don’t assume distance means disinterest; often, it’s just logistics. And good friends give each other room to grow, even if that means occasional gaps between catch-ups.
Tip: Offer flexibility. “No worries if now’s not a good time to talk – just wanted to say hi.”
3. Create new traditions
Sure, you’ve got old memories – but making new ones together is where friendships thrive. Consider starting a tradition like a yearly siblings’ weekend, sports or game match, or a monthly Zoom call. Even something as small as a shared playlist of favorite songs can strengthen your bond.
Tip: Start small – suggest a group chat with your siblings for silly updates or fun recommendations.
4. Be generous with encouragement
There’s something uniquely meaningful about a compliment or encouragement coming from a sibling. Celebrate each other’s milestones – promotions, new babies, artistic achievements, or just getting through a hard week. Let them know they’re seen.
Tip: If you admire something about your sibling, say it. Don’t keep those good thoughts to yourself.
5. Don’t let differences divide you
As adults, your lives might look very different. One sibling might have chosen a different career path, faith journey, or lifestyle. But friendship doesn’t require total agreement – it requires love and respect. Give them the same grace you hope to receive.
Tip: Listen more than you speak. Ask, “What’s been important to you lately?”
6. If there’s distance, extend grace
Even good relationships can drift. If you’ve felt some distance, don’t assume the worst. Extend the benefit of the doubt. A quick message like, “Miss talking with you! Want to catch up sometime?” is simple and disarming.
Tip: Focus on reconnecting, not rehashing old stuff – unless they want to go there.
7. Build the relationship you wish you had
No family is perfect, but you have the power to help shape a better relationship moving forward. You don’t have to wait for your sibling to make the first move. Be the one who starts fresh, forgives generously, and loves freely.
Friendships with siblings are a beautiful gift—but like any friendship, they take time, effort, and a little humility. Start where you are. Do what you can. And trust that even small efforts can grow into something meaningful and lasting.
Whether you talk every week or just reconnect now and then, investing in sibling friendships brings goodness not just to your family but to your whole life. Why not reach out today?