We’ve all been there and we’ve all thought “I need friends!” or “I need new friends!”, but how do we make friends as an adult?
Post-high school and college, it’s difficult to meet new people and establish friendships. It feels difficult to make friends as an adult because it was so easy to make friends in school.
As we get older, we begin to pare the people out of our lives that we no longer want to spend time with. And, sometimes we move to a new city and we need to build a new network of friends.
Whatever the reason, you are not alone in your journey to make new friends.
How to Meet Friends as an Adult
There are a few ways to find friends as an adult, but they all require one thing – you making the decision to put yourself out there. It won’t be as easy as it was in college, but you can do it!
There are three steps to making new friends – finding them, reaching out, and keeping up the contact.
1. Finding New Friends
Do something new (ie. leave your house) and put yourself in a situation where you will meet people with similar interests. Try any of the below:
- Join a sports league
- Take art classes – pottery, painting, theater, etc.
- Ask other friends to set you up with someone you might like
- Volunteer at an animal shelter or other non-profit
- Connect with coworkers
2. Following Up with Friends
I know, this is the tough part, but you’ve got to initiate. Take a chance and invite the person out to do something you’ll both enjoy.
Don’t take it personally if they’re not interested, just find another person and ask them!
3. Keep In Contact
After you’ve hung out with your new friend, decide if you’re interested in pursuing an ongoing friendship with them.
If you are, make sure to get another time to get together on your calendar. Regular contact is what really solidifies a new friendship.