The Art Of Making Friends As An Adult
We believe in the power of meaningful connections. In this fast-paced, digitally-driven world, making friends can sometimes feel like an enigma. Today we'll unravel the secrets behind the art of making friends as an adult, so grab a cup of coffee, sit back, and let's dive into the world of adult friendships.
Wasn’t it so much easier growing up when we were surrounded by potential buddies in school or had endless opportunities to meet new people in college. But fear not, because we're all in this together. Making new friends as an adult takes a bit of stumbling, but with the right approach, you'll find your balance.
Embrace the Awkwardness
Let's face it, making friends as an adult can be awkward. Gone are the days when you could simply bond over shared crayons or recess games. But fret not! Embrace the awkwardness and remember that everyone feels a little out of their comfort zone. Approach new social situations with an open mind and a genuine interest—your friendly demeanor will make you approachable to others. To make new friends, it's essential to step outside your comfort zone and explore new interests. Join a book club, take up a new hobby, or attend local events that align with your passions. By engaging in activities you love, you'll naturally meet like-minded individuals and increase your chances of finding genuine connections. Need a little extra help in the networking department, check out our past post Networking: Not Just for Extroverts - Why it matters and how to do it.
Be Open
While having a solid group of friends in high school and college was comforting, it sometimes prevented us from being open to new connections. Don't let preconceived notions or initial impressions hold you back. Give people a chance and invest the effort to get to know them. You might be surprised to discover hidden connections and shared interests. Even if someone seems different from you at first glance, don't dismiss the possibility of a genuine friendship, from the wise words of Ted Lasso “Be Curious, Not Judgemental”.
Approach People
It can be intimidating, but approaching potential friends is worth the extra effort. Think of it as similar to dating. If you saw someone attractive at the gym, you'd try to strike up a conversation, right? Apply the same approach to making friends. Maybe there's a person with awesome hair in your yoga class or a friendly co-worker you might have met at Table Space who always has the best recommendations. Take the time to build a connection by asking questions, sharing stories, and offering sincere compliments. Once you've established rapport, be confident and natural when inviting them on a friend date. Make them feel special and valued, like you genuinely want to get to know them. Remember, you're a confident and beautiful person, and who wouldn't want to be friends with someone like you?
Meeting new people as an adult can be both exciting and nerve-wracking. These tips will help you navigate the process and expand your social circle. Remember, everyone goes through the same experience, so embrace the weirdness, be open to new connections, and approach potential friends with confidence. Now, we want to hear from you! What are your tips for meeting new people as an adult? And make sure to follow us on Instagram for upcoming event announcements!