Do you remember your first day of kindergarten? Your mother, father, or guardian dropped you off at a huge building with lots of new faces. You walk inside the classroom and you see people talking amongst each other. Later that day, your provider picks you up from school and they ask did you meet a new friend?
Going to a new place and being with new people that you do not know, can be scary. And as we grow older, the never-ending cycle of meeting new people continues. “Do you want to be my friend?” is a question not typically asked as we grow up. In our teenage years, we continue to create friendships and relationships, but we then learn that some friendships do not last. In the early adult years, friendships can keep you feeling compassionate, energetic and your circle of friends can definitely improve your health. However, when it comes to the subject of friendships, life happens. We graduate college, get married, start a family, move to a different town and we lose touch. As we move through the seasons of life, often feel alone as we see our friends achieve great success. There are some occurrences where we move to a new town and simply know no one. Making adult friendships can be hard. Here are some ways you can make new friends and meet new people.
Reach out to old friends
It does not hurt to always reach out to a friend that you have not spoken to in a while. Having that special connection with someone who you have been friends with for a lifetime can help the feeling of loneliness at times. When connecting with an old friend, you may be able to connect with new friends.
Try something new
Another easy way to meet new people is to try something new. As an introvert, it may be a little difficult to get out of your comfort zone, however, it never hurts. In your local area, try something that you normally would not do. Go to a place where you have never been. Start writing. Once you find your passions, it is easy to talk to other people about similar interests.
Join a class or group
Joining a class or a group for a certain activity is a great way to meet new people. Never be afraid to try new things. Whether you are involved in a church group or a workout program, you will find new friends.
Use social media
Even though this might sound silly, it never hurts to use social media to meet new people. Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram are all social media sites where you can find people who have similar interests. Facebook has an abundance of private groups where community forms over similar interests.
The thought of meeting new people can be intimidating. However, once you put yourself out there and start a conversation, you may never know the connection it may bring. A simple conversation with a stranger may develop into a friendship of a lifetime.