For example, if you like to write or read, head to the library to see if they have any writing classes or book discussions coming up. Following your curiosities could lead you to an everlasting friendship—not to mention you’ll learn something new in the process!
You can find local clubs online through Facebook and Meetup. com. All you have to do is a quick search of the hobby you’re interested in and your location. Pay attention to bulletin boards when you’re out and about. Some clubs and organizations will hang flyers around town for upcoming meetings and events.
Don’t be afraid to go to events alone! This might give you the motivation you need to talk to someone. Who knows? Asking for directions could lead to a new friend. If you attend an event on your own, make sure someone you trust knows where you are. It’s always better to be safe than sorry.
Compliments can go a long way, so don’t be afraid to compliment their outfit, work ethic, or even music taste. You could say something like, “I love your sweater! Where did you get it?” or “You’re so organized. Any tips for a stationary hog like me?” Just remember to be yourself, and the friends will start rolling in with time.
Try messaging them something like, “Saw you went downtown recently. Got any food recommendations?” or “I love that bar! Are you going to open mic night?” Your 20s can be tough, but know that you’re not alone in feeling the challenges of change! Be vulnerable and vocalize your feelings. It may just lead you to your newest friend.
Friendships rely on proximity and reliability. If you’re known as the person who’s down for almost anything, you’ll be asked to hang out more often. Just remember to set boundaries for yourself. You don’t have to say “yes” to everything, but it is important to step safely out of your comfort zone when trying to make friends.
Head to your town’s social media or talk to neighbors to see if there are any volunteering opportunities nearby. You can also do a quick online search for “volunteer [insert name of town]. ”
Start with a general compliment or statement like, “You always put just the right amount of sugar in my coffee!” or, “I love your leggings! Where’d you get them?” Then, introduce yourself and ask for their name. Now, you can say hello to them by name whenever you see them and spark even more conversation.
This is a great little trick if you’re a bit nervous about finding friends on your own. You trust your friend’s judgment, so a friend of theirs could easily become your friend! Think of it like passing a resume along, only you’re hoping to impress a friend rather than a future employer.
Your partner can act as a buffer if you get anxious when meeting new people. You’ve got them to lean on if things get too awkward!
Comment on their social media posts to show them you’re interested in their lives. Shoot them a text asking them if they want to grab a coffee or do some shopping over the weekend. Try not to overthink it. Type out your message, and hit send. There’s no harm in putting yourself out there.
The effort you put into a friendship will help your friendship last, especially as you grow and change. If you feel renewed and happy after hanging out with someone, they’re worth making time for! A true friend is someone you crave time with because they make you feel good inside and out. Try setting up a designated time you and a friend can catch up every so many weeks. This way, you can both write it in your calendars and have something to look forward to.
Remember that you’re not alone in feeling this way. You will find your people with time; just keep pressing on. Stick to your routine, attend classes, go to events, and live your very best life. You’d be surprised by what can fall into your hands unexpectedly when you’re sure of yourself.
Continue to show up even when you feel low. Keep putting yourself out there because you never know when that best friend will come around the corner. Change doesn’t happen overnight, and instead of feeling discouraged, take each day as a new opportunity to cultivate the life and friends you’re looking for.
