Adults often find it strange to create new friendships. When you were a child, friendships happened naturally through things like playtime and classroom arrangements. But making adult friendships demands intentional effort. Don’t worry because you are definitely not the only one trying to make new friends. Many adults are searching to broaden their social network – with the right approach, making new connections doesn’t have to be awkward or forced. Here are 11 fun, low-pressure ways to make new friends as an adult.
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Pursue Your Interests (AKA Do Fun Stuff With Cool People)
Meeting people who share your interests becomes simple when you participate in activities you love. Love reading? Join a book club. Into fitness? Try a group workout class. Passionate about painting? Look for an art workshop. When you share interests with someone, conversations flow more naturally because you already have something to talk about.
Say Yes to Social Invitations
When you get an invitation to happy hour from a coworker or hear about a get-together from a neighbor, make sure to say yes! Walking into an event where you don’t know everyone means you’ve already conquered half the challenge. You might discover a new friend or at the very least gain an entertaining tale to share.
Volunteer for a Cause You Care About
When you give back to the community, you find fulfillment and meet friendly people who share your interests. Through activities like helping at animal shelters, serving at food banks, or participating in community cleanups, you will connect with others because of shared values and experiences.
Use Online Platforms to Find Local Events & Groups
Online platforms such as Meetup, Bumble BFF, and Facebook groups provide excellent chances to meet new friends. These platforms allow you to connect with people nearby who share your interest in friendship through activities like hiking clubs and trivia nights.
Reconnect With Old Friends or Acquaintances
There are times when amazing friendships can be revived with a bit of effort. Reach out to someone you haven’t spoken to in a while – like an ex-colleague or an old friend from college – and ask them if they want to meet for coffee. You never know where it might lead!
Be the One to Make the First Move
The idea may sound scary, but you must occasionally take that bold step forward. When you meet someone interesting at an event or class, say to them “Let’s grab coffee sometime!” – most people value your initiative since they probably wanted someone to extend their hand first.
Start Small (No Need to Dive Into a Huge Group)
Large social events can become overwhelming when you don’t know many attendees. You should start with small casual activities such as lunch with a colleague or a weekend stroll with your neighbor. Building authentic relationships becomes much simpler when you meet people in smaller groups.
Leverage Your Existing Social Network
The people you spend time with now might know others who would be good friends for you. At your next social event try asking someone, “Hey, do you know anyone interested in [insert your interest]?” A simple introduction often leads to new friendships.
Take a Class or Workshop
When you register for activities like cooking classes or dance lessons you enjoy double benefits – you pick up new skills while interacting with others in an informal setting. Joint projects naturally generate conversation between participants.
Play to Your Strengths (Introverts & Extroverts Welcome!)
Not a fan of big, noisy gatherings? Choose small coffee meetups, book clubs or join online communities instead. Love being in the mix? Consider going to networking events together with group exercises or joining social sports leagues. Select activities that match your personality traits so you actually enjoy meeting new people.
Embrace the Awkward (Because It’s Normal!)
We all know that meeting new people can feel awkward from time to time. But that’s okay! Awkwardness during social interactions is natural because these moments typically create laughter and genuine bonds. If you stumble with your words or struggle to find something to say, acknowledge it. The other person likely shares your feelings and will value your sincerity.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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