Making friends in midlife and above might seem hard, but it’s Good-hard. I am here to tell you that it’s possible. I have met a whole new squad of ride or dies in my fifties, and my mom has done the same at 79. I am an introvert, she is shy at first. If we can do it, so can you.
While it can be intimidating, especially in new environments or unfamiliar social settings, there are
several strategies to help you make friends:
Be Approachable
I’m not saying stand in the center of the room with a name tag that says, “Meet Me Now.” But approachability is key when it comes to making friends. Smile, make eye contact, and take your face out of your phone.
Initiate Conversations
This can be as simple as saying hello and complimenting something-anything. Ask an open-ended question. Expressing genuine curiosity about the other person.
Be Genuine
Authenticity is crucial in building meaningful connections. Be yourself and let others see the real you. Pretending to be someone you're not can lead to fake friendships and ain’t nobody got time for that. If they aren’t interested, neither are you.
Listen Actively
Practice active listening when engaging in conversations. Show genuine interest in what others are saying, ask follow-up questions, and respond thoughtfully. Being a good listener helps build rapport and demonstrates that you value the other person.
Attend Social Things
Pick and choose a few gatherings, social events, or group activities where you can meet new people. Shared interests provide a natural starting point for conversation.
Volunteer or Join Groups
Try activities that align with your interests and values. Joining clubs, volunteer organizations, or hobby groups not only provides an opportunity to pursue your passions but also introduce you to people who have something in common. Check out this hobby article for some ideas.
Use Technology
Use social media and online platforms to connect with people who share similar interests or live in your area. You can attend virtual meetups and see if anyone lives local.
Be Open to New Experiences
Step out of your comfort zone and be open to new experiences. This is often where the magic happens.
Follow Up
If you've had a positive interaction with someone, don't hesitate to follow up. Exchange contact information and suggest getting together for coffee, food, or another activity. Taking the initiative to continue the connection reinforces your interest in building a friendship.
Be Patient
Building friendships takes time, so be patient. Not every interaction will lead to a deep connection, and that's okay. Be persistent, continue putting yourself in social situations, and let friendships develop naturally.
Remember that everyone faces challenges in making friends, and rejection on either side is a normal part of the process, but it should be done kindly and tactfully.. Stay positive, be genuine, and focus on building connections with people who share your interests and values. As you invest time and effort into developing relationships, it will eventually happen!