Some people find it difficult to make friends when others can have loads and seem to attract more with ease and without realy trying.

Common interests is a very good starting point. There are many clubs such as weight loss, photography, art class, badminton or other indoor sports, joining a gym to tone up ( every member in there started with a first visit.), swimming, pet clubs, etc. the list is endless if you need inspiration go through your buisness finder or yellow pages and you will find something that should interest you.

Practice your conversation skills at every chance you get, even if the person you are making small talk with is someone you do not wish to befriend. It will make talking to prople you have not met easier.  Supermarket, waiting for a bus, McDonalds, there are people out there who will enjoy responding. A stranger is just a friend that you have not been introduced to. 

Example :- "nice weather we are getting for this time of year" or " I really like that dress you are wearing, where did you get it" or "Hey, did you see that new movie yet?" or " Have you started your Christma shopping yet?" Practice asking open questions, that is one that can not be answered with a YES or a NO and requires a responce. If you start with one that can be answered with a yes or a no be ready with a reply... Christmas shopping as above gets a no, You reply " Oh I started last week but I've still got loads to get yet. Wait a few moments if no responce, " I have six neices and five uncles still to get for.do you have many still to do.

You will encounter the awkward silence when you think what can I say now? This is good and the more you try without sounding desperate, the easier it will become to indulge in conversation with complete strangers AND the more people that you meet the more chance you will have of finding someone that you get on well with.

Then you can move onto the next bit.

Do you fancy meeting up to have lunch, see a move, go for a beer, watch the local dog show, see the latest Elvis impersonater at the local theatre, watch junior football / hocky or whatever.

Never be pushy and remember friendship is a two way thing and your friends sometimes want to do things or go somewhere that will not interest you BUT they will go to things with you that are not always of interest to them.

Simply practice the small talk often and try to go to places that are of interest to you where you can meet others with similar interests.

Good Luck with it.

JH