A list of easy and fun ways to make friends
Friends are significant contributors to living a happy and healthy life, both mentally and spiritually. Although it is important to have alone time and get to know and love yourself, it is equally imperative to have a good social support system intact.
Friends are there for you when you need help, struggling or experiencing a crisis in life. They can also give you advice regarding decisions about work, relationships or something as simple as whether you should wear jeans or a skirt to a party!
However, although everyone should have one or two good friends or even a group of friends, this is not always the case. Some people may be natural loners, shy or lack necessary social skills to meet new people. Events such as moving to a new city or starting a new job can make you the new person or odd man/woman out.
No matter the situation, it is very possible to make friends and it’s never too late!
Consider trying one or more of the following ways to make friends to increase your social status and quality of life.
Introduce yourself
Although talking to strangers may not be advised for safety reasons, this isn’t always the case when you’re new to an area and don’t know anyone. Above all, use common sense when approaching someone you don’t really know and stick to public, safe venues.
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If you’ve started a new job, introduce yourself to your colleagues and tell them a little about yourself and your background. Letting co-workers know that you are new to a city or work environment can open up the potential for one or a few of them to invite you to a social function or get together. Schedule a lunch break or after-work coffee date with a co-worker to get to know him or her better.
Since people spend the majority of their time at work, take advantage of opportunities to attend work parties or happy hour prior to the weekend to meet new people. Furthermore, many work settings may have volunteer or club committees that you can join and forge new friendships.
Volunteer
Volunteer work is not only good for your soul, it’s also one of the best ways to make new friends. Volunteer work can get you out of the house and help you support a cause that is near and dear to your heart. You can meet like-minded people with similar interests during volunteer work which can open up the opportunity to set up friendship dates outside of volunteer time.
Invite another participant out for a lunch date, a movie or to attend an arts show during a weekday or night you are both available. This can lead the way to establishing life-long friendships that are fulfilling and based on a common bond.
Join a club
Do you have a particular hobby or interest in something that you spend your time at in your spare time? If you like sports such as volleyball or soccer, consider signing up with a recreational league that plays one or two nights a week. Not only will you exercise your game-face and body, but recreational sports leagues are a great venue to meet people with your interests and of similar age.
If you aren’t really the sporty type, try seeking out book clubs to meet people who like to read and discuss critical issues. Bowling leagues, pottery clubs as well as cooking and art classes are also all fun and enjoyable ways to think outside the box and meet new people.
Making friends is not always an easy task and can be intimidating to many people who fear rejection or appearing awkward. However, establishing friendships is essential to an improved sense of well-being, happiness and lifestyle.
Take a risk by introducing yourself to someone new at a work meeting, a party or during extracurricular activities. Making one new friend often leads to meeting their friends as well, widening your social circle.