Experts Say These Activities Will Help You Meet New People
Just like many others, I consider myself both an introvert and an extrovert. Choosing Therapy calls this mix an ambivert. Someone who balances both introverted and extroverted tendencies. Ambiverts often feel equally comfortable in social situations and when they’re alone, with their tendencies shifting based on the situation or their mood.
This can sometimes make it difficult to make new connections. And don’t get me started on trying to meet new people as an adult. While sometimes intimidating, it’s not impossible. Some say the key is to be in the right place at the right time to meet potential new friends. Sounds tricky? Well, Best Life, a lifestyle magazine, has teamed up with life coaches and experts to create a list of activities that can help you meet new people.
Making new friends as an adult can be quite a challenge. As we grow older, our schedules get busier, and our social lives become more settled. It’s tough to find time to hang out with new people when we’re already so tied up with our existing circles. And let’s not forget, the older we get, the pickier we become about the company we keep. But according to one of their experts, building new relationships takes effort and time.
Believe it or not, they suggest that one way to meet new people is by hopping on a local Facebook group. I know that it can be scary to put yourself out there to strangers. But trust me on this one: When I moved to a new state a while back, I stumbled upon a group on Facebook that arranged meetups at bowling alleys, karaoke nights, restaurants, and community events in the area. It was a bit nerve-wracking at first, but after psyching myself up and forcing one of my close friends to go with me, I decided to attend a meetup. And you know what? I still keep in touch with one of the people I met through that group.
One expert suggests joining a sports team. “Becoming a member of a local sports league or enrolling in a fitness class offers a more active approach to making new friends,” the expert said. A friend of mine did this when she moved to Chicago. She’s not really into sports, but she wanted to meet new people in the big city. The flag football activity she joined turned into her weekly activity with people who have now become her friends. Joining a sports team or club not only helps you make friends but also keeps you active and having a great time.
Also on their list is volunteering at a shelter or checking out your local non-profits. Getting involved with local nonprofits can really expand your network and make a positive difference in other people’s lives at the same time. “Supporting causes you care about means you’ll be meeting compassionate people and potentially building meaningful friendships,” the expert said. Volunteering can also open the door to connecting with people who enjoy the same thing as you, like animals if you’re volunteering at an animal shelter.
Their experts also recommend signing up for classes like cooking or crafting workshops, downloading friend-finding apps like Bumble BFF, and engaging in other activities.
Take a look at the complete list here.