As a kid, you had no problem running up to your new neighbours and introducing yourself, or meeting other kids at school that would soon become your friends. But as you get older, it’s not such an easy endeavour, especially when you’ve taken on a whole new city. Making new friends while getting settled in a new location is something that can seem daunting if not downright impossible. It can be a serious challenge to strike that balance between asking someone to hang out without sounding desperate, crazy, or just plain awkward.
So if you’re new in town and are struggling the make new friends, here are some tips that might just help break through that ice and awkwardness.
Meet Up Groups
Attempting to meet new people and make new friends can make you feel awkward and vulnerable like few other things in life. With that in mind, why not try to reach out in an environment where you know that everyone is in the same boat as you? Meet up groups have sprouted up just about anywhere; so no matter where you’re living, chances are there is a bunch that you can join. Hop online to Meetup.com and search throughout your area for groups that pique your interest.
Volunteer at a Shelter
Spending your spare time doing something that you enjoy and that gives back to your community is a great way to interact with people and find great potential friends that share your same type of values and interests. So get out there into that new city and look for some great volunteer opportunities that you can get involved in while meeting new people. Even if you don’t make friends with fellow volunteers, you will certainly brighten the day of the people you are helping.
Join an Adult Karate Class
Pick a new hobby or forge a new one by joining a class. Adult karate classes are a great example for learning something new, while working on improving your body and mind. They’re relatively small and intimate, making it the perfect opportunity to share your experiences of learning and growing with your classmates. It’s great way to bond and develop new long-term friendships.
Use your Pet
If you’re a dog owner, take full advantage of those walks! Dogs are the perfect accompaniment for striking up a conversation by following their social lead. Take a few extra strolls through the park or pick a dog park to return to so that you can get to know the other owners.
Leave Your House
We understand that this can be hard at times, especially during those cold winter months, but if you don’t force yourself to get out and leave your home, you’ll never find new people to meet. So at least once everyday, make it a point to leave your house and head to your local coffee shop, bar, park, library or anywhere that suits you. Whether you strike up a conversation about coffee, your favourite book, or just asking for directions, you never know where you’ll find a new friend.
So get out and explore your new city. Meeting new friends as an adult definitely presents its challenges, but try some of these tips and you just might get lucky!
