Relationship
…Tips to making new friends as an adult
Good friends are worth so much. Few things in life are more important than supportive, close friends. Looking back at the friends that have come and gone in it is appropriate to appreciate how important friends are in one’s life.
However, it can leave a lot of us wondering how to make friends as an adult. While it can be challenging to meet new people you truly connect with as an adult, everyone craves for social connection at some point, and it is important to make that connection happen.
Here are some tips to help make friends
1. Take initiative
If you find people around you, you don’t need to wait for anyone to reach out to you and take the first step. Instead, become a kind initiator even if you are an introvert.
Start talking to a person and share something about yourself. Likewise, let them share about themselves. There’s no need to be so personal at the very first interaction, but exchange a few words or stories that can break the ice.
2. Join a new club or organisation
Get involved in an activity that matters to you, where you are likely to meet others with similar values and interests. You will have something to connect over and some of these relationships might become long-lasting friendships with time.
3. Show that you are friendly
A person that has friends must show themselves to be friendly. I often help my patients understand that you must be that which you seek. What qualities are important to you in ‘a friend’? Make sure that you are exemplifying those.
4. Do not look for similarities
If you do not share a similar vision and hobbies with someone, it does not mean you cannot develop a friendship.
A true friend is like a deep ocean who observes all the flaws of another person. Therefore, do not judge someone if he or she belongs to a different mindset. Not doing so will allow you to make new friends.
5. Be a good listener
If you notice your attention wandering when someone is talking, try to bring it back to what they are saying, If you are listening well, others will feel respected, understood, and warm up to you. – Source: parade.com