120+ Perfect Replies to “How Have You Been?” Texts

Getting a “How have you been?” text can feel simple, but it often carries more meaning than “How are you?” Whether it’s from a friend you haven’t talked to in a while, someone curious about your life, or a person who misses you, the best reply depends on the context and your relationship check more here : 100+ Thank You for the Warm Welcome Email Examples

In this guide, you’ll learn exactly how to respond to how have you been text messages with short, polite, friendly, funny, and flirty replies you can copy and send instantly. You’ll also see what people usually mean when they ask it and how to keep the conversation going naturally.

What Does “How Have You Been?” Mean in a Text?

“How have you been?” is usually a check-in, but it’s also a soft way to reconnect. It often shows that the person is interested in your life and wants to restart conversation without sounding too direct.

Why People Say It (They Miss You, Curiosity, Politeness)

People send “How have you been?” for a few common reasons:

They miss you
This is a common message from someone who hasn’t talked to you for weeks or months but wants to reconnect.

They’re curious
They may have noticed you’ve been quiet, seen something online, or simply want an update.

They’re being polite
Sometimes it’s just a friendly opener, especially when they don’t know how else to start.

They want to see if you’ll respond
A short, simple question is the easiest way to test if you’re open to conversation.

In many cases, the real question is not just “How have you been?” It’s “Are we still okay?” or “Can we talk again?”

“How Have You Been?” vs “How Are You?” (Difference)

These two questions sound similar, but they feel different.

“How are you?”
This is usually casual and present-focused. It’s often asked in daily conversation or quick check-ins.

“How have you been?”
This is past-to-present and often implies time has passed. It usually means:

• “It’s been a while.”
• “I’ve been thinking about you.”
• “What’s been happening in your life?”

If someone texts “How have you been?”, they’re often reopening a connection, not just greeting you.

What They’re Really Asking (Context Matters)

The meaning changes based on who sent it.

If it’s a close friend
They likely want a real update and a conversation.

If it’s an old friend
They may be testing the waters to reconnect.

If it’s a crush
It could be a flirty check-in and an invitation to talk more.

If it’s an ex
It could be curiosity, nostalgia, or trying to restart contact.

If it’s a coworker
It might be professional, polite, or networking-related.

That’s why learning how to respond how have you been text depends less on the words and more on the relationship behind them.

How to Respond to “How Have You Been?” Text (Quick Guide)

If you’re not sure what to say, use this simple approach. It works whether you want to reconnect, keep it short, or stay neutral.

Pick Your Tone (Warm, Neutral, Flirty, Formal)

Before replying, decide what you want the conversation to feel like.

Warm
Use when you’re happy to hear from them.

Neutral
Use when you’re unsure or want to be polite without getting personal.

Flirty
Use if it’s someone you like and want to keep the vibe playful.

Formal
Use for professional contacts or coworkers.

Your tone decides what happens next, so choose it first.

Keep It Honest but Not Too Deep

You don’t have to share everything. A good response gives an honest update without turning into a life story.

Good simple formats:

• “I’ve been good, just busy with work.”
• “Not bad. A lot going on, but I’m managing.”
• “Honestly, it’s been a mix, but I’m okay.”

This makes your reply feel real while staying comfortable.

Share a Small Update (1–2 Lines)

The easiest way to reply is:

1. answer their question
2. share one small detail

Example:
“I’ve been good. Work’s been busy lately, but I’m doing alright.”

A small detail makes the conversation feel natural and gives them something to respond to.

Ask a Question Back to Keep It Going

If you want them to reply, always end with a question.

Good questions include:

• “How about you?”
• “How have you been lately?”
• “What have you been up to?”
• “What’s new with you?”

This turns a one-line answer into a real conversation.

Use Short Responses if You’re Busy

If you’re busy or not ready to talk much, keep it short but polite.

Example:
“I’ve been good, just busy lately. Hope you’ve been well.”

This is a perfect middle-ground reply that doesn’t ignore them but doesn’t invite a long chat either.

Mistakes to Avoid (Oversharing, Dry Replies, Ignoring Context)

Avoid these common mistakes:

Oversharing too soon
If you haven’t talked in a while, keep it light first.

Being too dry
Replies like “good” or “fine” can shut the conversation down.

Ignoring context
If it’s someone you haven’t spoken to in months, replying like it’s a normal daily check-in can feel cold.

Making it awkward
Don’t force too much emotion if you’re unsure of their intentions.

If you want the safest approach, answer briefly, add a small update, and ask a question back.

Best Short Replies to “How Have You Been?” (Copy-Paste)

These short replies work for most situations and help you respond quickly without overthinking.

Short Casual Replies

1. I’ve been good. How about you?
2. Doing pretty well lately. You?
3. I’ve been alright, just busy.
4. Not bad at all. How’ve you been?
5. Good overall. What about you?
6. I’ve been okay. Life’s been moving fast.
7. I’m doing fine, thanks. You?
8. I’ve been good, just tired lately.
9. Not bad, honestly. How are you doing?
10. I’ve been okay. What’s new with you?

Short Polite Replies

1. I’ve been well, thank you. How about you?
2. Doing well, thanks for asking.
3. I’ve been good. Hope you’ve been well too.
4. I’m doing fine, thank you.
5. I’ve been alright. How have you been?
6. I’ve been well, just busy these days.
7. Doing okay, thank you. Hope all is good with you.
8. I’ve been good, thanks. What about you?
9. I’m doing fine. Appreciate you checking in.
10. I’ve been well. How are things with you?

Short Replies That Feel Friendly

1. I’ve been good. It’s nice to hear from you.
2. Doing okay. What have you been up to?
3. I’ve been alright. I was just thinking about you.
4. I’ve been good, thanks. How’s life been?
5. Not bad. I’ve missed talking to you.
6. I’ve been doing okay. What about you?
7. I’ve been good. Tell me what you’ve been up to.
8. I’m doing well. How have you been lately?
9. I’ve been fine. It’s been a while, hasn’t it?
10. I’ve been good. How’s everything going with you?

Short Replies to End the Conversation

1. I’ve been good, thanks. Hope you’re well too.
2. Doing fine, thank you. Take care.
3. I’ve been alright. Hope everything’s good with you.
4. I’m doing okay, thanks for asking.
5. I’ve been good. Wishing you the best.
6. Not bad. Hope you’re doing well.
7. I’m doing fine. Appreciate the message.
8. I’ve been well, thank you.
9. Doing okay. Thanks for checking in.
10. I’ve been good. Have a great day.

Longer Responses to “How Have You Been?” (Meaningful Replies)

If you want to reconnect or sound more thoughtful, longer responses work better. These are great for close friends, old friends, or anyone you genuinely want to talk to.

Longer Friendly Replies

1. I’ve been doing pretty well lately. Work has been keeping me busy, but things are good overall. How have you been?
2. I’ve been good. It’s actually really nice to hear from you. What have you been up to these days?
3. I’ve been okay, just trying to stay focused and positive. How have you been? What’s new with you?
4. I’ve been doing fine. Life has been moving quickly, but I can’t complain. How about you?
5. I’ve been good, thanks for asking. I’ve missed talking to you. How have things been on your side?

Longer Honest Replies

1. Honestly, it’s been a mix. Some days have been stressful, but I’m managing and trying to stay calm. How have you been?
2. I’ve been okay, not perfect, but I’m getting through things. I appreciate you checking in. How are you?
3. I’ve had a lot on my mind lately, but I’m doing my best. How have you been doing?
4. It’s been a little overwhelming recently, but I’m alright. What about you? How have you been?
5. I’ve been okay. Just dealing with life and trying to keep everything balanced. How are you doing these days?

Longer Positive Replies

1. I’ve actually been really good lately. I’ve been focusing on myself and things have been improving a lot. How have you been?
2. I’ve been doing great. Life’s been busy, but in a good way. What have you been up to?
3. I’ve been good. I’ve been working on a few goals and feeling proud of the progress. How about you?
4. I’ve been well, thank you. I’ve had some good news recently and I’m feeling grateful. How have you been?
5. I’ve been doing really well lately. It feels like things are finally moving in the right direction. How are you?

Longer Replies When You Haven’t Talked in a Long Time

1. I’ve been good, honestly. It’s been a while since we talked, so it’s really nice to hear from you. What made you reach out?
2. I’ve been doing okay. Life has been busy, but I’ve been meaning to reconnect with people I care about. How have you been?
3. I’ve been well. I can’t believe it’s been so long. How have things been for you lately?
4. I’ve been good. I’ve missed our conversations, not going to lie. What have you been up to these days?
5. I’ve been okay, just caught up in life. I’m glad you messaged. How have you been doing?

Casual and Friendly Replies to “How Have You Been?”

These replies work when you want the conversation to feel easy and relaxed, without being too formal.

Friendly Replies for People You Know Well

1. I’ve been good. Just busy as usual. You?
2. I’m doing alright. What about you?
3. I’ve been fine. What’s new with you lately?
4. Not bad. Just handling life. How have you been?
5. I’ve been good. Tell me how you’ve been.
6. Doing okay. Been a busy week. You?
7. I’m good. Just trying to stay positive. What about you?
8. I’ve been alright. What have you been up to?
9. I’ve been good. Anything new with you?
10. I’m okay. How have you been lately?

Friendly Replies for Old Friends

1. I’ve been good. It’s honestly so nice hearing from you.
2. I’ve been doing well. It’s been a long time. How have you been?
3. I’ve been okay. I was actually thinking about you recently.
4. I’ve been good. What have you been up to all this time?
5. I’ve been doing fine. It’s been ages. How’s life been?
6. I’ve been well. I’m glad you reached out.
7. I’ve been okay. Let’s catch up. How have you been?
8. I’ve been good. I miss our old conversations.
9. I’ve been fine. Tell me what you’ve been doing lately.
10. I’ve been good. What made you message now?

Friendly Replies That Keep the Conversation Going

1. I’ve been good. What about you? What have you been up to lately?
2. I’ve been okay. What’s new with you these days?
3. I’ve been fine. What’s been happening in your life?
4. I’ve been good. What have you been doing recently?
5. I’ve been alright. Tell me what’s been going on with you.
6. I’ve been well. What’s the biggest update from your side?
7. I’ve been good. How’s your week been?
8. I’ve been okay. What’s been keeping you busy?
9. I’ve been fine. What’s something new in your life?
10. I’ve been good. Are you free to catch up sometime?

Funny Replies to “How Have You Been?”

Funny replies are best when you want to break the ice, keep the mood light, or respond in a playful way without giving too much detail.

Light Funny Replies (Safe Humor)

1. I’ve been good, just trying to survive adulthood.
2. I’ve been okay. My sleep schedule is the one struggling.
3. I’ve been fine. Just busy pretending I have everything together.
4. I’ve been good. No major chaos lately, surprisingly.
5. I’ve been okay. Life has been doing life.
6. I’ve been fine. Just tired in a professional way.
7. I’ve been good. My stress is manageable today.
8. I’ve been okay. Running on coffee and hope.
9. I’ve been fine. Just vibing and coping.
10. I’ve been good. Don’t jinx it though.

Witty and Sarcastic Replies

1. I’ve been great… said no one during a busy week.
2. I’ve been fine. Emotionally buffering, but fine.
3. I’ve been okay. My brain is just loud lately.
4. I’ve been good. The chaos is under control, barely.
5. I’ve been fine. Let’s not ask follow-up questions.
6. I’ve been okay. Trying not to be dramatic.
7. I’ve been good. Just avoiding life in HD.
8. I’ve been fine. My motivation has been missing though.
9. I’ve been okay. Surviving, as usual.
10. I’ve been good. I deserve an award for it.

Funny Replies to Break the Ice

1. I’ve been good. Should I give you the short version or the full story?
2. I’ve been okay. You texted at the perfect time.
3. I’ve been good. I was wondering when you’d show up.
4. I’ve been fine. What took you so long to check in?
5. I’ve been good. So, what’s the reason for this surprise message?
6. I’ve been okay. Now it’s your turn. How have you been?
7. I’ve been fine. I’m accepting good news and funny stories today.
8. I’ve been good. Tell me what’s been happening with you.
9. I’ve been okay. Let’s catch up properly.
10. I’ve been good. I missed this kind of conversation.

Flirty Replies to “How Have You Been?” (For Crush or Dating)

If a crush or someone you’re dating texts “How have you been?”, it’s usually a soft way to reconnect and start flirting. Your reply should feel playful and confident.

Cute Flirty Replies

1. I’ve been good, but I feel like I’ve been missing you a little.
2. I’ve been okay. It’s nicer now that you texted.
3. I’ve been good. You’re kind of making my day better.
4. I’ve been fine. I was hoping you’d message.
5. I’ve been okay. I like seeing your name pop up.
6. I’ve been good. You’ve been on my mind lately.
7. I’ve been fine. But your message is my favorite part of today.
8. I’ve been good. Tell me you missed me too.
9. I’ve been okay. I feel like we need to catch up properly.
10. I’ve been fine. Now I’m curious how you’ve been.

Confident Flirty Replies

1. I’ve been great. You should check in more often.
2. I’ve been good. But you’re still my favorite distraction.
3. I’ve been fine. I was wondering when you’d text again.
4. I’ve been good. I’m still cute, if you were wondering.
5. I’ve been okay. Better now that you showed up.
6. I’ve been good. What took you so long to ask?
7. I’ve been fine. Your timing is suspiciously perfect.
8. I’ve been good. I think you missed me.
9. I’ve been okay. But I’m more interested in you.
10. I’ve been great. Now tell me what you’ve been doing.

Flirty Replies That Invite a Date

1. I’ve been good. We should catch up in person.
2. I’ve been fine. When are you taking me out?
3. I’ve been good. Want to meet and talk properly?
4. I’ve been okay. Coffee and a catch-up sounds like a good idea.
5. I’ve been good. Let’s fix this “not talking” thing soon.
6. I’ve been fine. You owe me a proper catch-up.
7. I’ve been okay. Want to grab food and talk?
8. I’ve been good. I think we need a date to catch up.
9. I’ve been fine. What are you doing this weekend?
10. I’ve been good. Let’s meet soon and talk like old times.

Flirty Replies That Keep Them Chasing

1. I’ve been good. But I’m not telling you everything yet.
2. I’ve been okay. You’ll have to earn the full update.
3. I’ve been fine. What made you think of me?
4. I’ve been good. Now I want to hear your part first.
5. I’ve been okay. You’re late, but I’ll forgive you.
6. I’ve been fine. I’ll tell you more if you keep texting.
7. I’ve been good. But I’m curious why you’re checking in now.
8. I’ve been okay. Don’t disappear again.
9. I’ve been fine. I’ll give you a full update later.
10. I’ve been good. But now it’s your turn to impress me

How to Respond to “How Have You Been?” From an Ex

When an ex texts “How have you been?”, it usually means one of three things: curiosity, nostalgia, or testing the waters. The best response depends on what you want. If you want peace and no drama, keep it calm. If you want closure, be polite. If you want them back, be warm but steady. If you don’t want a conversation, reply briefly and close it.

Neutral Replies (No Emotion)

These responses keep things respectful and distant without sounding rude.

1. I’ve been good. Hope you’ve been well too.
2. Doing fine. How about you?
3. I’ve been okay. Thanks for asking.
4. I’ve been well. What about you?
5. Doing alright. Hope things are going well for you.
6. I’ve been fine. How have you been?
7. I’m doing okay. Thanks for checking in.
8. I’ve been good, just busy lately.
9. I’m fine. Hope you’re doing well.
10. I’ve been alright. Take care.

Polite Replies (Closure Energy)

These are warm but firm replies that show maturity and keep the tone calm.

1. I’ve been doing well, thank you. I hope life is treating you kindly too.
2. I’ve been okay. I appreciate you checking in. Hope you’re doing well.
3. I’ve been good. Wishing you the best moving forward.
4. I’m doing fine, thank you. I hope everything is going well for you.
5. I’ve been alright. Thanks for reaching out.
6. I’ve been good. I hope you’ve been taking care of yourself.
7. I’ve been fine. Thanks for asking, and I hope you’re doing okay too.
8. I’ve been doing well. I’m glad things are peaceful these days.
9. I’m okay. Thanks for checking in. Wishing you the best.
10. I’ve been well. Hope everything is good on your end too.

Replies If You Want Them Back

These replies show warmth and openness without looking desperate. They invite conversation naturally.

1. I’ve been good, but honestly I’ve missed talking to you sometimes. How have you been?
2. I’ve been okay. It’s nice hearing from you. What’s been going on with you?
3. I’ve been doing well, and it’s honestly good to see your message.
4. I’ve been fine. I was wondering how you’ve been lately.
5. I’ve been good. I’m glad you reached out.
6. I’ve been okay. Life’s been busy, but I’ve thought about you.
7. I’ve been doing alright. I’m curious how you’ve been doing too.
8. I’ve been good. I’m open to catching up if you are.
9. I’ve been okay. I didn’t expect your message, but I’m glad you sent it.
10. I’ve been good. Want to talk for a bit?

Replies If You Don’t Want a Conversation

These replies politely close the door while staying respectful.

1. I’ve been good, thanks. Wishing you well.
2. I’m doing fine. Take care.
3. I’ve been okay. Hope things are going well for you too.
4. I’ve been well. Thanks for checking in.
5. Doing fine. I appreciate the message.
6. I’m okay. Hope you’re doing well.
7. I’ve been good. All the best.
8. I’m doing fine. Thanks for asking.
9. I’ve been alright. Have a good one.
10. I’m okay. Take care of yourself.

Professional Replies to “How Have You Been?” (Work and Business)

When someone from work asks “How have you been?” it’s usually a networking opener or a friendly check-in. Keep it professional, positive, and brief. If you want to reconnect, add a polite follow-up question.

Replies to Colleagues

1. I’ve been doing well, thanks. How have you been?
2. I’ve been good—staying busy. How about you?
3. Doing well. It’s been a busy season.
4. I’ve been fine, thanks for asking. Hope you’re doing well too.
5. I’ve been doing well. What have you been working on lately?
6. I’m good, thanks. How have things been with you?
7. I’ve been well. It’s nice hearing from you.
8. I’ve been good. Hope everything is going smoothly for you.
9. Doing well, thank you. How’s work been on your end?
10. I’ve been fine. Thanks for checking in.

Replies to Managers or Clients

1. I’ve been doing well, thank you. Hope you’re doing well too.
2. I’ve been well, thanks for asking. How can I help today?
3. I’m doing well. Thank you for checking in.
4. I’ve been good. Hope everything is going smoothly on your side.
5. I’m doing well, thank you. I appreciate the message.
6. I’ve been well. Looking forward to continuing our work together.
7. I’ve been doing fine, thank you. Hope you’ve been well too.
8. I’m doing well. Please let me know if you need anything.
9. I’ve been good, thank you. Hope things have been going great.
10. I’m doing well. Thank you for asking.

Professional Replies to Reconnect

1. I’ve been doing well, thanks. It’s been a while—how have you been?
2. I’ve been good. I’d love to hear what you’ve been working on lately.
3. Doing well. It’s great to reconnect—how have things been with you?
4. I’ve been fine. Would love to catch up and hear your updates.
5. I’ve been well. What’s new on your side these days?
6. I’ve been good. Would you like to schedule a quick catch-up call?
7. Doing well, thanks. Let’s reconnect soon if you’re available.
8. I’ve been doing well. I’m glad you reached out.
9. I’ve been good. Would love to hear what you’ve been up to professionally.
10. Doing well. Hope we can chat again soon.

Honest Replies When You’re Not Doing Well

If someone asks “How have you been?” and you’re not okay, you can still respond honestly without oversharing. These replies are real, respectful, and emotionally balanced.

Honest Replies Without Oversharing

1. Honestly, it’s been a bit tough, but I’m managing. How have you been?
2. It’s been a mix lately, but I’m okay. Thanks for asking.
3. I’ve had a lot going on, but I’m doing my best.
4. I’ve been okay. Just taking things one day at a time.
5. I’m not at my best, but I’m getting through it.
6. It’s been a little stressful, but I’m hanging in there.
7. I’ve been alright. Just dealing with a few things.
8. I’ve been okay, not perfect, but I’m trying.
9. I’ve been a little overwhelmed lately, but I’m managing.
10. It’s been challenging, but I’m staying hopeful.

Replies When You’re Stressed or Tired

1. I’ve been tired lately, honestly, but I’m okay.
2. It’s been busy and a bit stressful, but I’m managing.
3. I’ve been okay. Just exhausted from everything going on.
4. I’ve been alright, just trying to stay calm through the chaos.
5. I’ve been good, just mentally tired these days.
6. I’m okay. I could use a break, but I’m pushing through.
7. I’ve been fine, but I’ve been dealing with a lot lately.
8. I’ve been okay. Just taking it slow and focusing on my peace.
9. I’ve been alright. My energy has been low lately.
10. I’ve been okay. Just a little drained recently.

Replies When You Want Support

1. Honestly, I’ve been struggling a little. I could really use some support.
2. It’s been hard lately. I’m trying to stay strong, but it’s not easy.
3. I’ve been going through a lot. It means a lot that you asked.
4. I haven’t been okay lately. Can we talk for a bit?
5. I’ve been feeling down. I’d appreciate someone to talk to.
6. I’ve been overwhelmed lately. Your message actually came at the right time.
7. I’ve been struggling, but I’m trying. Can I be honest with you?
8. I’ve been dealing with a lot emotionally. I’m glad you reached out.
9. I haven’t been myself recently. I could use a friend.
10. It’s been a tough time. I’d really appreciate your support.

Replies When You Don’t Want to Talk

Sometimes you just don’t want conversation, and that’s okay. These replies help you stay polite while protecting your space.

Short Replies That Stay Polite

1. I’ve been good, thanks. Hope you’re well too.
2. I’ve been fine, thank you.
3. Doing okay. Thanks for asking.
4. I’ve been alright. Appreciate you checking in.
5. I’m doing well, thanks.
6. I’ve been okay. Hope you’re doing well.
7. I’ve been good. Thank you.
8. I’m fine, thanks for asking.
9. I’ve been alright. Take care.
10. Doing fine. Hope you’re well.

Delayed Responses (Busy but Kind)

1. Hey, sorry for the late reply. I’ve been busy, but I’m doing okay. How about you?
2. Sorry, just seeing this now. I’ve been good—how have you been?
3. Hey, been a hectic few days. I’m doing fine though. How are you?
4. Sorry for the delay. I’ve been busy lately, but I’m doing alright.
5. Just getting back to messages. I’ve been good—hope you’ve been well.
6. Hey, sorry I missed this earlier. I’m doing fine. How about you?
7. Sorry for replying late. It’s been busy, but I’m okay.
8. Hey, I’ve been caught up. I’m doing well though—how have you been?
9. Sorry for the late response. I’ve been fine, just busy.
10. Hey, just saw your message. I’m doing okay—hope you are too.

Boundary Replies (If You Need Space)

1. I’ve been okay. I’m taking some time for myself right now, but I hope you’re doing well.
2. I appreciate you asking. I’m not really in the mood to talk much these days.
3. I’ve been alright. I’m keeping things quiet for now.
4. I’ve been okay, but I’m focusing on myself at the moment.
5. Thanks for checking in. I’m not ready for conversation right now.
6. I’ve been fine. I just need a little space lately.
7. I’m okay. I’m keeping things private these days.
8. I’ve been alright. I’m taking a break from everything.
9. I’m doing okay, but I’m not really up for chatting right now.
10. I appreciate your message. I’m just keeping to myself lately.

Replies Based on How Long It’s Been

The timing matters. A reply after a few days looks different than a reply after months or years.

Replies After a Few Days

1. I’ve been good. Just a busy few days. How about you?
2. I’ve been fine. How have you been?
3. Doing well. What’s been going on with you?
4. I’ve been good. Just catching up on things.
5. I’ve been alright. How have you been lately?
6. I’ve been fine, thanks. What’s new with you?
7. Doing okay. How about you?
8. I’ve been good. How’s your week been?
9. I’ve been alright. What have you been up to?
10. I’ve been fine. Thanks for checking in.

Replies After Weeks

1. I’ve been good. It’s been a while—how have you been?
2. I’ve been okay. Life got busy, but I’m glad you texted.
3. I’ve been fine. What have you been up to these past weeks?
4. I’ve been good. What’s new with you lately?
5. I’ve been alright. I’ve missed talking to you.
6. I’ve been good. How’s everything going for you?
7. I’ve been fine. What made you reach out?
8. I’ve been okay. Let’s catch up properly.
9. I’ve been well. It’s good hearing from you again.
10. I’ve been alright. What have you been doing recently?

Replies After Months or Years

1. I’ve been good. Wow, it’s been so long. How have you been?
2. I’ve been okay. I didn’t expect your message, but it’s nice hearing from you.
3. I’ve been doing well. It’s been ages. What’s new with you?
4. I’ve been good. Life has changed a lot. How about you?
5. I’ve been fine. It’s surprising to hear from you after so long.
6. I’ve been okay. I hope life has been treating you well.
7. I’ve been doing well. What made you message after all this time?
8. I’ve been good. I’ve missed talking to you.
9. I’ve been alright. Let’s catch up—how have you been?
10. I’ve been well. It’s nice hearing from you again.

Best Follow-Up Questions to Keep the Conversation Going

If you want a reply back, always ask a question. It’s the easiest way to keep the conversation natural.

Simple Follow-Up Questions

1. How about you?
2. How have you been?
3. What’s new with you?
4. What have you been up to?
5. How’s life been?
6. How’s your week going?
7. What’s been happening?
8. How are things on your side?
9. How’s everything going?
10. What’s going on with you?

Friendly Follow-Up Questions

1. What’s the biggest update in your life lately?
2. What have you been doing recently?
3. What’s been keeping you busy?
4. Anything exciting happen lately?
5. What’s something good that’s happened recently?
6. What have you been working on?
7. Are you doing okay these days?
8. How’s your family and work been?
9. What have you been enjoying lately?
10. Want to catch up properly sometime?

Flirty Follow-Up Questions

1. Did you miss me or are you just checking in?
2. Why are you suddenly thinking about me?
3. What made you text me today?
4. Are you always this sweet or is it just today?
5. Should I take this as you wanting to talk more?
6. What’s the real reason you messaged me?
7. Are you free this weekend to catch up?
8. Want to continue this conversation over coffee?
9. Do you want the short answer or the cute answer?
10. Are you trying to flirt with me right now?

Text Templates (Fill-in-the-Blank Replies)

These templates help you reply quickly while still sounding personal.

Template for a Friendly Reply

Hey [Name], I’ve been [good/okay/busy] lately. I’ve been focusing on [work/school/family]. How have you been?

Template for a Funny Reply

I’ve been [surviving/thriving/barely holding it together], not going to lie. What about you? How have you been?

Template for a Flirty Reply

I’ve been good, but I feel like I’ve been missing [you/your vibe/your messages]. How have you been lately?

Template for an Ex Reply

I’ve been [good/okay] lately. Hope you’ve been well too. What made you reach out?

Template for a Professional Reply

I’ve been doing well, thank you. Hope you’ve been well too. Would love to hear what you’ve been working on lately.

Do’s and Don’ts When Replying to “How Have You Been?”

Do’s

1. Do match the tone to the relationship.
2. Do give a short update and ask a question back.
3. Do keep it polite even if you don’t want to talk.
4. Do reply honestly without oversharing.
5. Do acknowledge the time gap if it’s been long.
6. Do keep your response natural and simple.
7. Do use warmth if you want to reconnect.
8. Do set boundaries if you need space.
9. Do keep it professional at work.
10. Do respond in a way that fits your comfort level.

Don’ts

1. Don’t overshare personal details to someone you don’t trust.
2. Don’t reply too cold if the person is genuinely kind.
3. Don’t force humor if the tone feels serious.
4. Don’t ignore the context, especially if it’s an ex.
5. Don’t respond with one-word answers if you want conversation.
6. Don’t reply flirty if you’re not interested.
7. Don’t pretend everything is perfect if you want support.
8. Don’t keep replying if the conversation drains you.
9. Don’t reopen old wounds if you’ve moved on.
10. Don’t feel pressured to respond immediately.

Conclusion

Knowing how to respond to “how have you been?” text messages is easier when you decide what you want first. If you want to reconnect, keep it warm and ask a question back. If you want boundaries, keep it polite and short. And if you’re not doing well, you can be honest without explaining everything. The perfect reply is the one that matches your situation, your comfort level, and the relationship.

FAQs

How to reply how have you been text?
A simple, effective reply is: “I’ve been good, just busy lately. How have you been?” It answers, gives a small update, and keeps the conversation going.

How to respond to what have you been up to?
Share one or two quick updates, then ask them back: “Mostly work and staying busy. What about you?”

How are you replying flirty?
Keep it playful: “I’ve been good, but it’s nicer now that you texted. What made you message me?”

How to respond to how have you been though?
If the “though” feels serious, reply honestly but softly: “It’s been a bit of a mix, but I’m managing. Thanks for asking. How have you been?”