It definitely gets more difficult to develop true friendships as we grow older.
When we were kids, it was so simple to approach someone and become friends over a game, but now everyone is so serious and guarded.
The good news is there is hope if you follow these simple tips:
1. Be approachable
The stone-face syndrome is strong in adulthood, especially in us women. Perhaps this could be because many of us are so busy with the stresses of life that wherever we go, our natural look says ’don’t approach me.’
For you to have some success, you have to loosen up and lighten up. This might be what allows someone to feel comfortable approaching and talking to you so, try and smile more.
2. Leave the house more often
The routine of going to work and coming straight home is also something that many of us are used to. You might pass by the supermarket for groceries once in a while but that’s not even always necessary because you can have them delivered anyway.
Yes, your home is awesome and you usually can’t wait to get back as soon as you leave but, that makes it harder for you to meet people. Get comfortable going to places where you can interact with new people and have fun with it.
3. Connect online
Online is a great space where you can form friendships easily. Something as silly as a meme can connect you to someone from the other side of the world so, the opportunities are endless.
The best way is to be in those online spaces where people share similar interests. You can share interesting ideas and form a close bond with people who you might never meet in person and that’s okay too.
4. Try new things
You can also bond with people through unique activities like cycling, dancing, hiking or even something simple like going to the gym.
This is where you can find people who are motivated by similar goals, which is a wonderful base for a natural friendship to develop.
Think of a list of things you have always wanted to do and overcome the fear of trying something new by taking the first step.
5. Reach out to old acquaintances
Acquaintances aren’t exactly your friends because the relationship hasn’t progressed to a deeper level. You might be missing out on an opportunity to expand your circle of friends by ignoring some potentials that have been on your list for a long time.
You can actively decide to put in more effort here since you probably have some shared interests already. You can invite them for lunch with your other buddies so that you can all get to know each other better.
