How to Make Friends as an Adult: 3 Simple Tips That Actually Work

You ever see those photos of women clad in gorgeous summer dresses laughing and smiling at a restaurant/dinner tables and think, “I wish I had a friendship like that.” No? It was just me? OK. I had always longed for a friendship between women like that in my adolescence, now that I’m older and I’ve been fortunate enough to experience some amazing friendships dynamics between my girlfriends.

Why is making friends so daunting in your adult life? We don't have a problem putting ourselves out there on a dating app (that’s a different issue entirely) but when it comes to friendships, especially between women, we clam up. Is it because what we want in a friendship is deeper than what we seek in a potential romantic partner?

I’ve always been a solo girlie. I would go to concerts, dinners, shopping trips, vacation, etc by myself. Although it was a good time, deep down I wanted someone there to share those moments with. So last year, I decided I wanted to share some moments of my life with women who I truly clicked with. I joined a new gym in my city and within the year of going, I was able to cultivate some very meaningful friendships with women and men. So here are my tips on how I made new friends last year as an adult.

Tip 1: Get a hobby. I love to workout, it’s a HUGE component of my lifestyle. I’ve made about 6 or so quality friends and acquaintances just from going to a new gym. My gym is a small neighborhood establishment and the classes are no more than 25 people so that makes it easier to talk to someone new. Ask someone to spot you, compliment their outfit or just wave and be friendly. 

Tip 2: Reach out to old friends. Get on Meta or Instagram and see what your old college or high school friends are up to. You never know what can come from those rekindled friendships.

Tip 3: Travel more. Go to that cute cafe in Paris and smile at someone and make conversation (do French people like being smiled at?) If you can't travel far and wide, try a new cafe or restaurant in your city and sit at the bar and strike up a conversation. 

Always remember to be polite, look your best, smile and be yourself.