How to make friends
Friends come in all shapes and sizes, some friends are funny, some friends are quiet, and some friends are energetic. However, the experience is always rewarding, it doesn’t matter whether you are an introvert or an extrovert.
You might not believe me but I was an introvert at some point in my life. And in those times my friends came to rescue me. Even now, I sometimes shut myself in for days and my introverted personality takes over.
However, when you look at it positively, I am lucky that I have both experiences as an introvert and an extrovert.
And throughout those experiences, I have found the 7 best ways to make friends.
Table of Contents
7 best ways to make friends
Here are the 7 best ways to make friends that I find out throughout my life -
- Be yourself - The most crucial step is to be yourself. Don’t try to hide your true personality, let others see your real interests and hobbies.
- Step out - Be brave and get out of your comfort zone. The chances of someone coming to your room and becoming your friend are near zero. Join clubs and organizations that you are interested in. This way you will meet people who share the same interests as you.
- Experience new environments - You read it right. No one stopping you from trying new things. Attend social events, new classes, or workshops where you can meet new people.
- Start a conversation - Again be brave and start a conversation with people you meet. It doesn’t meteor if you are good at it or not. You will have to learn the art of conversation at some point. Here is a pro tip, Ask an easy question (Looks cloudy, is it going to rain?) and then follow up with an open-ended question. Here is an article on asking open-ended questions - How to ask open-ended questions
- Stay in touch - Stay in touch with the people you meet. Friendship requires ongoing efforts just as other relationships. You can do this by organizing a get-together or simply checking or calling them.
- Do volunteer work or join groups - If you like do volunteer jobs or you can join groups and communities of interest. This way you will meet new people who share the same interest as you do.
- Be a good Friend - Friendship is all about reliability and trustworthiness. Support your friends in times of need. Be kind and empathetic. This can attract more people. Be a good listener as well. Here is an article about effective listening - How to improve your listening skills
Now, let’s address questions related to making or having friends -
Why did I have no friends?
Depending on person to person the reasons can be different.
It could be because of social anxiety, shyness, lack of opportunities to meet new people, or maybe because mismatch in interests with the people you have met so far.
Whatever the reason, you should not blame yourself. The better way is to take positive steps and make new friends.
How to make friends as an adult?
It can be difficult for some people to make friends as an adult because it’s different from making friends as a child. However, it is not impossible. Here are some ideas -
- Use online platforms such as social networks to find people of the same interests.
- Attend workshops, classes, or social events
- Join hobbyist or professional groups where you can meet new people with the same interests.
- Join sports or book clubs
- Meet with coworkers or colleagues outside of work by organizing social gatherings.
Why do I feel like I have no friends even though I do?
Sometimes, despite having friends, you may still experience feelings of loneliness or a lack of connection.
The reason you feel like you have no friends even though you do is may be because you are depressed.
Sharing your feelings honestly with your friends or seeing a therapist or professional is important.
What age is it hardest to make friends?
It never depends on the age to make new friends. It depends on you and your environment. You can make new friends at any age.
Conclusion
Remember making friends is a lifelong journey. It always starts with a first step. Take the initiative and go out and meet new people. You will have a network of friends in no time.
