Where To Make Friends as an Adult

Childhood friendships came so easy. You lived in the same neighborhood or sat at lunch together it was effortless. As you get older your social circle seems to shrink and making new friends after a certain age becomes more daunting.

Making friends and keeping them as an adult seems to make us anxious. It doesn’t have to.

First, we have to stop judging ourselves. We often worry about what others think of us and this holds us back.

• Will they think I’m desperate or pushy
• Maybe I’m not good enough to be friends with them
• Will I seem uneducated or less interesting than there other friends
• Will I say too much or not enough
• They have a better job than me will I seem less important

The way you see yourself will be the way others will see you. This in itself will hold you back from all things in life not just creating new friendships.

Test the water and start a small conversation to break the ice. It doesn't have to be about anything important. Introduce yourself and go from there. You should be able to figure out if this is someone you will speak to again or not during a few conversations. You never know until you try right!

If you decide you hit it off, then start small go for coffee or lunch. Remember, let it progress naturally.

There are so many places that you can meet new friends that share the same interests as you. You just have to be open and willing to put yourself out there.

I have put together a list of six places to possibly meet new like-minded adults.

*Note: Your friends don’t have to have all the same interest as you this way you can challenge each other to do new things *

1. Take a Class

Whether it’s an educational class, fitness class or a class for fun sign up.

It will put you in a room with others who are interested in the same thing you are or at least learning the same thing you are.

Introduce yourself is all, see if the conversation flows.

2. Volunteer

Volunteering not only allows you to meet new people, but it also lets you do something to help others.

Find a local organization was you can volunteer your time.

Working together to solve one problem or reach a goal is initiative enough.

3. School/Children’s Activities

An excellent way to meet other adults that are parents. You can attend fun activities, join the PTO or just sit and mingle.

If your child's friend's parent has a similar interest, start your own friendship with them.

4. Recreational Sports Team

There are many adult recreational leagues out there. Basketball, Soccer, and Football.

Not an athlete, not a problem consider joining a trivia team or dart league.

Check local social media sites or gyms to see what is happening in your area.

Being part of a team is a sure-fire way to begin a friendship.

5. Church / Religion Program

If you prefer to meet someone who shares your faith. Church or religious events may be for you.

You can also usually find these on the bulletin board at church or the leaflet passed out prior to the service. If your new to the church attend a church luncheon or social.

6. Work

You already spend a good amount of time with your fellow coworkers. You socialize over lunch and find the conversations easy, so why not go out to dinner or shopping.

Just make sure this does not complicate your work environment. You can not let your friendship outside of work affect your relationship in the office.

Maintaining friendships may help your psychological well being as well as your physical well being.

When you have a good social circle you will feel as if you belong and your stress level will decrease. You will be less likely to lead a sedentary lifestyle and be more active.

In a healthy friendship, you will be able to rely on and trust each other. Friends will listen to your troubles and cheer you on when you need a little motivation. It can also boost your confidence and help perfect your social skills.

Have fun with it and make new friends!