How Do You Make New Friends as An Adult?
Navigating the complexities of adult friendships can be a daunting task, but it’s far from impossible. This article demystifies the process by offering practical strategies backed by expert insights, tailored for those seeking meaningful connections. Discover actionable tips on how to expand your social circle through shared interests, consistent engagement, and networking opportunities beyond the workplace.
- Pursue Activities You Love
- Show Up Consistently
- Join Interest-Based Groups
- Leverage Business Networking
- Engage Outside of Work
- Connect Through Children’s Activities
Pursue Activities You Love
Making friends as an adult can feel a bit awkward at first, but it’s surprisingly rewarding once you start putting yourself out there. I’ve found that the best way to meet new people is by pursuing things I already love doing, but in spaces where others are involved. Whether it’s joining a running group, taking a pottery class, or attending a local trivia night, being around people who share your interests creates natural opportunities to connect. You’re already starting with common ground, which makes conversations flow more easily. Sometimes, it’s as simple as being open and approachable. A smile, a kind word, or even a casual, “What made you decide to join this?” can go a long way in starting a connection. These small moments of friendliness can be the foundation of something bigger.
I’ve also leaned on my existing friendships when trying to branch out. Asking a friend to introduce you to someone they think you’d get along with is a great way to meet people without feeling completely out of your element. I’ve learned that saying yes to invitations, even when I’m tempted to stay home, can lead to some of the best experiences. Going to that party, group outing, or casual hangout might seem daunting, but it’s in those moments that you meet new people and build connections. Sometimes, I’ve even turned to apps or online communities when looking for people with shared interests nearby. It’s a bit unconventional, but it’s helped me meet others I wouldn’t have crossed paths with otherwise.
One thing I’ve realized is that consistency matters. Showing up regularly, whether it’s at a class, a volunteering gig, or even a local cafe, helps you get to know people over time. It takes patience and effort, but it’s worth it. Some of my best friendships have grown slowly, starting with casual chats that turned into deeper conversations over time. At the heart of it, making friends as an adult is about being intentional and open. It’s about stepping out of your comfort zone, showing genuine interest in others, and giving those connections time to grow. It might feel a little scary at first, but the more you put yourself out there, the easier it becomes—and the rewards are absolutely worth it.
Peter Wootton
SEO Consultant, The SEO Consultant Agency
Show Up Consistently
Making friends as an adult can feel tricky, but I’ve found that the key is showing up—literally and figuratively. It’s all about putting yourself in situations where connection is possible and being genuinely interested in others.
A few years ago, I moved to a new city where I didn’t know a soul. It was intimidating, but I decided to join a local book club. Now, I’m not even a huge reader, but I figured it was a good way to meet people with shared interests. At my first meeting, I barely spoke, just soaking it all in. Then someone mentioned loving historical fiction, which happens to be a favorite of mine. That small connection sparked a conversation, and before I knew it, I had dinner plans with a few of them.
I also learned that consistency is crucial. Showing up regularly, whether it’s to a gym class, a volunteer group, or even a neighborhood event, builds familiarity—and familiarity fosters friendship.
The biggest lesson? Be open and curious. Asking thoughtful questions and listening more than talking makes people feel seen, which is the foundation of any great friendship. And hey, it works! Some of my closest friends today started with those small steps.
Takarudana Mapendembe
Founder, Best Calculators
Join Interest-Based Groups
I’ve found that joining interest-based groups or communities is one of the easiest ways to make new friends as an adult. For instance, I started attending local coding meetups and blockchain seminars, which led to regular coffee chats and social dinners outside of formal events. Having shared passions quickly breaks the ice, and you bond faster when you collaborate or learn together. I’ve also seen this approach work wonders, where our alumni network often morphs into tight-knit friendships after they graduate from the bootcamp.
Another key strategy is to lean on the power of small talk—saying a friendly hello to a neighbor or coworker can spark a casual conversation that grows into a real connection. Finally, consistency is important: whether it’s showing up to the same gym class every week or popping into a local bookstore’s monthly reading club, repeated exposure encourages familiarity and comfort, paving the way for deeper, more genuine friendships.
Harsha Abegunasekara
CEO, Metana | Tech Bootcamps
Leverage Business Networking
Building new friendships as an adult can sometimes feel daunting, but my experience in business networking has taught me invaluable strategies. One of my favorite tactics is to join or start networking meetings. These specialized events are not just about professional growth but also provide a casual setting to connect with people who share similar interests or goals. By attending regularly and engaging with open-ended questions, I’ve built meaningful relationships that often extend beyond the workplace.
Additionally, collaborating with other small businesses has been an underrated avenue for friendship. When I engage other businesses in joint projects, not only do I ensure the project benefits both parties, but I also create long-term connections. For example, partnering for a local initiative allowed me to meet individuals I might not have encountered otherwise, changing professional ties into personal ones.
Finally, leveraging strategic planning can extend to personal contexts. Just as I plan which business events to attend with purpose, I also apply that intention when deciding where to socialize. Being selective about the environments I immerse myself in ensures that I surround myself with individuals who share my values and interests, naturally facilitating friendships.
Amber Bigler Newman
Director of Marketing, Phone.com
Engage Outside of Work
Making new friends as an adult can be tricky, but I’ve found that being intentional and open to new experiences makes all the difference.
One strategy I’ve used is to get involved in activities that align with my interests. For example, I joined a local fitness class focused on strength training, which not only helped me with my health goals but also connected me with like-minded people.
Another strategy is to engage with colleagues or clients outside of work, whether it’s grabbing coffee or attending networking events. I’ve met some of my closest friends this way, where shared professional interests sparked personal connections.
One memorable instance was when a fellow entrepreneur and I, after a series of business meetings, started talking about our hobbies, and soon we were meeting regularly for weekend outings.
My advice to anyone looking to make new friends as an adult is to take the first step—whether it’s inviting someone to lunch or joining a group activity—and be open to the possibility of deepening those connections over time.
Aseem Jha
Founder, Legal Consulting Pro
Connect Through Children’s Activities
I’ve found that the most effective way to make friends as an adult, is to make friends with your children’s friends’ parents. For me, a large portion of my friends now started as either NCT class friends or my children’s friends’ parents. The other way that has worked for me is through sports clubs. For me, soccer and table tennis. A shared interest is always the easiest way to break the ice with new friends.
Ben Grimwade
Software Engineering Manager, Just Another Tech Lead
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