Happy Monday, darlings!
I hope you’ve had a lovely weekend! Today I’m chatting about something that seems to be pretty common as we get older….how to make friends as an adult. Read on for some tips <3
4 Effective Ways to Make Friends as an Adult
Would you believe me if I told you that I was shy and that making friends as an adult has proven to be quite the challenge for me? It’s true. My personality is interesting in that I am both an introvert and an extrovert depending on the situation and who I’m with. Obviously, if I feel comfortable around someone, I’m super talkative and goofy, but the second I step into a room where I don’t know anyone or I feel intimidated, I sink into my shell and back myself in a corner away from everyone. I’m not good at small talk and since I’m a whiz at reading body language, getting to know others can feel forced sometimes.
My position is unique in the fact that I own two businesses and work from home so I don’t have co-workers or “work relationships.” In fact, I haven’t for the last five years and this is the main reason that it’s been difficult to make friends as an adult. Aside from running my businesses, I was a substitute teacher for a long time and worked at a new school everyday. You learn to be independent, self-sufficient and get used to not having others around.
Also, I’m originally from a VERY small town where everyone knew everyone and since moving to a larger city, I’ve found that forming friendships is fairly hard since a lot of people are hesitant to let “strangers” into their groups. I’ve also come to terms that my old friends are in a different place in their lives. They’ve moved away, climbed the corporate ladder or started families of their own and sadly, sometimes people just grow apart and don’t have anything in common anymore. Does any of this sound familiar? Can you relate?
You’re not alone. I can’t tell you how many people I talk to that feel exactly the same way. We are too busy, too shy, too tired and too scared to and many times feel like we can’t find others that are like us…that understand us. I love the phrase “some people come into our lives for a reason, some a season and some a lifetime” and I’ve definitely found this to be true. You should never feel bad about drifting apart from some people because as we get older, we evolve making this a natural transition. That’s when you should take the time to find others that fit your lifestyle at that point in time. Here are some ways that I like to find like minded individuals and make friends as an adult!
4 Ways to Make Friends as an Adult
Say Yes To Invitations
Okay so don’t say yes to every invitation that comes your way otherwise you might go crazy haha! What I’m saying is that you should say yes sometimes instead of staying at home and lounging on the couch in your favorite yoga pants while eating Doritos and watching reruns of The Office. Yes, I’m guilty of this. Sometimes staying at home sounds so much better than going out, but you will never meet anyone that way. For example, I’ve recently been getting into going to blogger events. Yes, it’s a bit of an inconvenience because I have to drive 3 hours one way to get there and I spend more time in my car than at the event making it an all day thing. And yes, I am terrified and nervous of showing up without knowing a single soul. But from my experience, it has been worth it. I fill my drives with podcasts and loud music and a one hour event turns into a fun-filled day of making new friends, seeing new places and trying new things. In fact, going to these events has actually made me feel better knowing that there are people out there just like me and I would have never found them had I not taken the chance. I walked in paralyzed with fear and walked out knowing that I had found my tribe. Of course, it’s scary to meet new people but you have to remember that they are feeling the exact same way. Just a simple smile and genuine compliment can turn into a new friendship.
Co-Workers and Clients
If you work outside the home, chances are that you have co-workers. You are with these people for the majority of the day so over time you get to know them pretty well. Before my subbing days, I worked at a small dermatologist’s office with a handful of other girls. We had so much fun working together, created so many inside jokes that I’ll remember forever and had the craziest work experiences that I am positive I will never have anywhere else. My husband also met his best friend at his job. They are inseparable and I envy the bond that they have with one another. Not having co-workers is the one thing I dislike about working from home but on the other hand, I do have clients and chances are that if you are a business owner, then you do too. You work closely with these people in a different way and they can become like family. I know that sometimes people don’t like mixing business with friendship, but definitely don’t write them off because you never know what it can turn into 😉
Try New Things
Get out and try new things! Check out some classes, groups and meet ups in your area. Chances are that if you join a class that you are interested in, then you are going to meet people that already have that interest in common with you. Also, look for groups that meet up frequently. Whether that’s once a week or once a month, you’re more likely to find a few friends that consistently join making it easy to create those long term connections. I used to meet up with a local photography/women business owners group and made a ton of connections that way. And if you’re in a bigger city, check out the Bumble BFF app (check out my full review here)! You can also connect via CallMeChat to meet like-minded women who share your love of romance, fashion, and all things feminine.
Why not try living with roommates? If you’re worried you won’t click, you don’t have to be. Spare Room is the best roommate finder in Austin, NYC, Boston, or wherever you’re living in the US! With filters and ways to chat, you can find roommates who love the same things as you. It’s a great way to make new friends.
Outfit Details
Dress c/o (also in mint and emerald) | Shoes c/o (also seen in this post – I also have these!) | Bag c/o (review in this post) | Sunnies c/o | Rocksbox Necklace (get a free month here or use my Rocksbox code ELIZABETHBFF651)| Watch c/o | Hair Bow c/o | Lipstick
Social Media
This one might sound silly but really, this is the way the world works now. I might be a bit biased because I spent a large amount of time on social media, but I have met some truly amazing people this way! I’ve had people reach out to me or vice versa and that little introduction is enough to form a deep connection and true friendship. I have found people that I can confide in…my own personal cheerleaders and therapists. People that understand me and that share the same interests that I do. People that I now consider my friends. And for the ones that I’ve met in person, I have felt like I have known them forever. “Friend material” isn’t always found in your city or even in your state. You might find your bestie on the other side of country or on a different continent and the neat thing is is that without even meeting them in person, you know that you have found a true friend. That is the power of social media.
One last thing I should mention is that you should also be confident, friendly and approachable. After all, your vibe attracts your tribe 😉
What are some of your favorite ways to make friends as an adult?
xo
Shop the Post
These are great suggestions for meeting others. I have also met wonderful people through social media. Love this chic dress Liz!
https://www.kathrineeldridge.com
Social media is the best place to meet others!
That is such a pretty dress, I really like that bag with it. These are good tips too, thanks for sharing! While I don’t go to blogger events (would rather spend time with the boys) I do love getting out to mums groups and mum’s events and kids events and I meet people that way 🙂
Thank you for the link up!
Hope you have a had a great week and have a lovely weekend ahead of you! We have a quiet one planned after being a bit unwell the last few days.
Away From The Blue Blog
Thanks so much Mica! Yes, any groups are great opportunities of meeting new people! I did! I went to a wedding <3 I hope you had a great weekend too!
that ruffle dress is so pretty. I had a similar one
The Glossychic
Yay – dress twins!
I’ve been surprised at how many friends I’ve made on social media—-but then again they are normal women just like me!!
What a lovely dress, Liz!!! Have a great weekend!!
XOXO
Jodie
http://www.jtouchofstyle.com
This is my most absolute favorite dress I’ve ever seen you wear. So gorgeous. Love the fit and unique cut.
Great tips Lizzie! It’s so hard to make friends as an adult!
xo Jules
Thanks so much Julia! It definitely is!
I’m actually the same. An extroverted introvert. Seems crazy, and my husband still can’t wrap his brain around the introvert being associated with me…LOL. I love the asymmetrical ruffles on that dress. They are very flattering, and the length is perfect!
Haha! I know! My husband is always confused about which one I am lol! Thanks so much Lisa!
I need to try some of these tips out! I’ve definitely felt the same way since leaving college, its so hard !
http://stylebysamantha.com/?p=5274
I know! You are not alone <3
I can definitely relate girl! Working from home is tough sometimes! Love your tips. x
Definitely! Thanks girlie!
It is so hard to make new friends! When I first moved and had my first baby, it was so incredibly hard! I find if that you do the inviting and plan making people are willing to go, but someone has to initiate it!
Yes! I feel like I have to do the initiating for anything to happen lol!
I used to find it very difficult to talk to people, but after having children and gotten older I just like talking to people, I only have a few close friends but plenty of acquaintances. Thanks for sharing Lizzie. Jacqui Mummabstylish
Thanks so much Jacqui! I think it gets easier as you get older. I know it has for me anyway!
Such a great post! It’s so hard making friends after college!
Agreed! SO difficult!
Oh my gosh that pink jumpsuit is to die for. Also, this post is great because I totally struggle with making friends as an adult!
I love your pink, the color looks absolutely beautiful on you! Your tips for making new friends as an adult are great and I have definitely made friends on social media. Thanks for a great post!
Thanks so much Suzanne! It’s such a great place to connect!
I totally feel you on making friends as an adult, i feel scared to make friends in person. I feel they will not accept my goofy personality. I love to laugh and make jokes and I like to feel comfo with people who like to be funny. I’m also a person that likes time to myself and there’s times I want a little company, but a smaller crowd you know. love your dress Pink really suits you 🙂
http://www.tipsyheelz.com 🙂
Thanks so much Trina! I know what you mean! I’m the same way and it’s hard for me to open up to others if they give off a more serious vibe. I do love my alone time too!
such great tips and love your outfit! I’m an introvert so making friends is hard.
I moved to a new city, alone, at age 35, and the #1 most important thing was “saying yes” to invitations. Five years later, I have an awesome group of friends that I never would’ve become close to if I hadn’t taken a chance! This is all great advice!
Cheryl Shops | http://www.cherylshops.net
Aww that’s amazing! It’s crazy how one little change can dictate your future <3
Such great tips!!
And, yPretty in pink!! Love that handbag too!!
xo,
Angelle
http://www.dashingdarlin.com
Like you, I’m more on the shy side and not super talkative so it’s hard for me to randomly strike up conversation with others. I definitely think your tips are spot on– having my blog has made it so much easier to connect with others and meet people who are likeminded IRL!
Agreed! it’s so much easier to meet people in the blogging world…maybe because we’re all so similar lol!
So first off, I love your dress and purse! You’re not the only one, I find it hard to make friends as an adult as well. I can by shy at first but once I get to know you I am really talkative and pretty much an open book. Your tips are great. I should probably try them. It’s just exhausting sometimes trying to keep up with friends when you have 2 jobs and a kid.
I am the exact same way! I know what you mean, girl! I am working crazy hours and barely have enough time to eat, let alone hang out with friends haha!
I feel like you can meet new people in the most interesting ways. This was such a fun and great post! I really love the pink details of your outfit. It is so fun and classy. Your bag is gorgeous as well. I hope your having an amazing weekend 🙂 http://www.bauchlefashion.com
Yes, you definitely can! I know I have haha! Thanks so much Heather!
Love all the pink vibes!! And that bow is super cute
Social media is a great way, although it sounds silly. I made a friend through Instagram recently and we love telling everyone that we met through social media because it sounds so ridiculous!
Haha! I know! My husband and I started our relationship from MySpace of all places! You never know 😉
I agree with these! Sometimes it’s hard to make new friends after high school/college. I am so thankful for the blogging because I have made so many friends.
Same here! Love then blogging world!
I can totally relate. Especially since my divorce, it’s been difficult to find new friends. Like you mentioned my friends from the past are in a different place in their lives and do not have the time or interest to go out without their spouses. I’m having a tough transition time, but trying hard to move forward and find friends in this new stage of life. Thanks for the tips!
Elsie | http://www.polishedwhimsy.com
Aww! I know that can be so tough, but just know that there are other ladies out there looking for a great friend too 😉 It just can be hard to find them sometimes.
Your outfit is so cute! I love that bag! Super chic 🙂
Thanks so much!
Such a great list! I especially like the one about accepting invitations. I definitely need to get better at doing that. And as always, lovely dress!!
Miles of smiles,
Grace
gracefulrags.com
I find it hard to make freinds as an adult too, i always meet people on social media but they never live near me
xo
http://www.laurajaneatelier.com
Same here! Not even remotely close lol!
Interesting post but I personally avoid to make friends at work. On your outfit’s side: beautiful dress and mules 😉
https://4highheelsfans.wordpress.com/2018/04/09/chantilly-day-1/
You look so pretty in pink!! It’s totally your colour!
Thanks so much Krystin!
I’m naturally quite shy and reserved too so I can totally relate to this. I’ve only been to a few blogger events and I’ve been nervous at first but once you get chatting you find you’re with like-minded people and relax. I love your pretty dress – I’d buy it in all three colours!
Emma xxx
http://www.style-splash.com
Yes, I totally agree! You just have to remember that everyone else is nervous too! Once you start chatting, the anxiety goes away 🙂
Making friends as an adult is so much harder, even as an extrovert haha.
Making friends as an adult is sooo hard! Thanks for sharing these great ideas 🙂 Love your dress too, the asymmetrical ruffles are so pretty! xo, Brittany Nicole | http://www.theblistblog.com
You are such a gem Liz! It’s so important to find like minded people to do life with, especially in the blogging world. I love meeting new people and hearing their story, even if we are not doing to be best friends I still love to connect with different people. Xo, Nelli
I am obsessed with your dress!!! So pretty and super flattering on you! And making friends as an adult is so hard especially once you become a mom! I feel like you go through phases with friends and as soon as you become a mom and none of your other friends are moms yet you kind of fall out of touch. Or at least that’s been my experience so far.
xo, Laura
Thanks so much Laura! I feel the same, but on the opposite side of the spectrum. All of my friends became moms and I was excluded since I didn’t have children.
social media has been such a great thing for me! i’ve met some of my now closest friends online!!
xoxo
Victoria
http://www.agallonofglitter.com
making friends while adulting can for sure be difficult! Getting out an being approachable has so much value. loved your point of view.
http://www.thechicpaige.com
I’m a big fan of trying new things to make friends!
xoxo,
Emma
http://petitemaisonoffashion.blogspot.com/ ♥
Me too, girl!
This is such a great post! I feel like so many people have a tough time making friends as adults! I’m just extra picky these days! ha!
Thanks so much Ashley! Being picky is probably a good thing haha!
This is such a cute read dear! And yes! Invitations to party, activities, etc., can definitely expand your circle. Anyway, cute outfit as always! Loving the ruffles, and the color is just perfect on you.
Jessica | notjessfashion.com
Thanks so much Jessica! I agree! You just have to get out and meet new people haha!
That really is a great dress! Thanks for hosting. Have a great week 🙂
now that im graduating from school, this has definitely been on my mind a lot!! it seems so hard finding friends when you’re older!
YOu are just so adorable. Love this dress! So classy yet sexy! XOXO
Edwige | http://www.hypnozglam.com
I agree– accept invitations! You know never where this invitation will lead to or who you will meet!
I LOVE this! Adult friendships can be so difficult to navigate, let alone make new ones! These are some great tips, thanks for sharing! xo
I’m so glad that you liked it Jamaria!
These are excellent suggestions! I have a tough time maintaining new friendships because if someone doesn’t understand my chronic illness, they’re likely to write me off after I repeatedly flake on hanging out or going out because of a flare-up. It’s a bummer, but I’ve become more comfortable being a homebody and only have a couple of close friends. No new friends for this chica (unless they’re online haha)!
Awe that’s really sad! I can’t even imagine what you must go through. I have met some really good friends online!
gosh it feels great to revisit this topic! my husband and i had this conversation when some new neighbors moved in next door – about how hard it is to start a relationship at 30+ but these are great tips to help with that for sure!
xx rebecca // thecrystalpress.com/blog
Such cute photos, as always! And love this post! I definitely need to be better about saying yes to new invitations!
That’s seriously why I like social media. I have met friends on the platforms and it really works,
XOOX
Jodie
These are great tips! It can be hard to make friends as an adult.
Amy Ann
Straight A Style
Thank you so much Amy! I’m glad that you liked it!
I am a loner so I do not usually make friends easily. I have small meaningful interactions with people but not many close friends.
❥ tanvii.com
I LOVE your style! I’m naturally a shy and introverted person, but work is where I have made most of my friends.
Thank you so much Lily!
Having a few real friends is better than having a ton of fake friends.
Thanks for a marvelous posting! I quite enjoyed reading it, you may be a great author. I will ensure that I bookmark your blog and will eventually come back very soon. I want to encourage yourself to continue your great posts, have a nice day!
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Very detailed and informative!!
Keep On Sharing….
So happy you enjoyed!
I’m so glad that you liked them! Thank you Rach!
I love this dress, Lizzie! So beautiful and so totally you! I am much like you…an introverted extrovert. Or maybe an extroverted introvert. In any event, I go through phases where I am super social and then I must retreat into reclusiveness while I recover. Quarantine has left me mostly friendless, however, so I am hoping when we can plan social outings again, I will be able to make new friends. Fingers crossed. I will refer back to your tips when the time comes. Thanks for sharing and linking up!
Shelbee
http://www.shelbeeontheedge.com
Thanks so much Shelbee! Oh yes! I get sooooo tired after social events lol! I hear you on that. I’ve been watching lots of videos to keep me company haha! Of course <3
Aw Thanks so much Amanda! I know the struggle 🙂 Absolutely!
This is super helpful since it is really hard to make friends as an adult. No doubt about that no bit honestly x
Oh I know! It’s such a struggle sometimes lol!
Aw Thanks so much Donna! I agree! I know, right? I’ve meet so many amazing people including yourself! And this is one of my very favorite dresses – glad you like it!
Love all these tips! I used to make a friends at baby/child playgroup activities but now my kids are older so it’s been a little tricky especially since we moved to a new area recently.
Thanks so much Darleen! Aww! I hope you find a new group soon <3
I wrote a similar post a few months ago based on my own personal experiences! Making friends as an adult can be so challenging!
Absolutely! I tried Bumble BFF too and that didn’t work out so well for me haha!
making friends as an adult is definitely hard so loved reading your tips!
kileen
cute & little
Absolutely! Glad you enjoyed!