How To Make Friends in Adulthood
Making friends as an adult can be a challenging and sometimes awkward experience, as depicted in popular sitcoms and social media jokes. Even before the pandemic, many adults found it difficult to form new connections, citing reasons such as a lack of free time, introversion, and trust issues. During the pandemic, a significant number of people reported feeling lonely and disconnected, with 1 in 3 Americans experiencing serious loneliness.
Although some adults believe they can live without close friendships, research shows that having supportive friends can lead to better health outcomes and lower the risk of mental health conditions. Experts recommend having 3-6 close friends for optimal health. If you’re feeling lonely, it may be time to expand your social circle.
Here are some tips for making new friends in adulthood:
- Focus on quality over quantity: Having one or two close connections is more beneficial than having many acquaintances.
- Don’t start from scratch: Try rekindling lost connections before seeking new friends. Consistency is key in forming close relationships.
- Use online resources: Apps like Bumble BFF, Yubo, Meetup, and Facebook groups can help expedite the process of finding new friends. You can even start a group in your city if there isn’t one available.
When searching for new friends, it’s important to approach it with a positive mindset. Remember, you’re not just seeking friendship, but offering it in return. Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there and embrace your unique qualities. With confidence and determination, you can find the right people to form meaningful connections with
