Perhaps you've just moved to a new area, split up with a long-term partner or are just feeling generally lonely. There are many reasons you may want to boost your friend list. Having friends increases your self-worth and sense of fun, and introduces you to new and different ways of life. The good news is there are lots of friends to be made in the world--you just need to put yourself out there.
Join a Club
Check local listings either on the Internet, the post office board, or the newspaper, and you're sure to find a club that interests you. Whether it's netball, soccer, sewing or stamp collecting, go along and introduce yourself with a warm smile. You can start a conversation about the task at hand, and with a shared interest you're sure to find something to talk about from there.
Get Online
These days everybody is online. Join forums that interest you, or start a blog, and post regularly. It may take some time to meet people this way who you actually want to meet offline, but just chatting online can be a rewarding way to get to know people. With the anonymity behind the screen, Internet chat-room users are often more open in what they say than they would be face to face. Be very careful if you do decide to meet up, though. Always let someone know where you're going, and meet in an area you know well.
Back in Touch
Contact old friends you've lost touch with. It's easy to find them online. They might be in exactly the same situation as you, and be grateful for your call or email. Meeting up with them could lead to many other opportunities for making friends.
Know Your Neighbors
If you're not already friendly with the people who live next to you, then that's a great place to start. Take a cake round, or borrow something simple such as salt, and introduce yourself. Ask if they would like to go out for a drink or coffee sometime. Or compliment them on their house and invite them to see yours.
Throw a Party
This may seem daunting if you don't know many people, but it can be the best way to widen your circle of friends. Invite the people you know, and tell them to bring some friends. You'll meet lots of people, they'll all be grateful for having them over, and if they have a party you may be invited. Warn your neighbors about the potential noise--then invite them, too.
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