It definitely takes effort. However I do get discouraged if I feel like I’m the only one working on trying to keep the connection. Loads of my previous friendships was just me always starting the conversation or suggesting to meet or do something together and it does makes me feel like I’m bothering them, but I suppose thats ‘my problem’ I do have hobbies, I’ve been active in one for over 10 years and had connections with seweral people, but we stopped talking for one or the other reason. I will have to look out for local craft groups, maybe that will work.

I grew up in Poland, now living in the UK (up north). I moved here in my mid twenties and I really like it here. And when I miss Poland a quick trip to polish shop helps.