Making new friends isn't always easy. You might even find it more challenging to make new friends as an adult than when you were a child. As a child, you were probably put into many social situations without much effort on your part. School, clubs, and sports, for example, may have been places where you met many of your childhood friends. As an adult, you might have more obligations and time limitations than you did before, however, with a little effort, it's still possible to make new friends.
Step 1
Take an adult education class on a subject you think is interesting. Many high schools, colleges and community centers offer continuing education classes for adults. You can expand your knowledge in a given subject area while meeting others who have similar interests.
Step 2
Join a gym or sports team. According to "Redbook," exercising can be a fun, interactive way of meeting new people. Plus, you'll reap the physical and mental benefits of regular exercise, such as getting in shape and decreasing the likelihood of anxiety or depression by boosting your levels of endorphins, your body's "feel good" hormones.
Step 3
Invite a colleague from work to do something social, such as getting a cup of coffee or a drink after work. According to the Better Health Channel, many people make new friends through work but you have to be open to participating in social activities. Go to work-sponsored social events if your company offers them, such as employee picnics, dinners or birthday parties.
Step 4
Volunteer with a local charity or another worthwhile organization, such as a hospital or animal shelter. According to "Redbook," volunteering through a group activity can provide you with an opportunity to make new friends while helping out in your local community. You can often find volunteer opportunities listed in your local community newspaper. Try Volunteer Match (see resources), a website that lists volunteer opportunities by location and area of interest.
Step 5
Expand your conversational skills. When in doubt, ask others about their work, family or interests. Try to curb negativity, as most people enjoy being around people who are positive and cheerful. According to the Better Health Channel, it's important to be open to the attitudes and opinions of others. Accept that others have the right to have their own ideas and viewpoints.
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