As adults, making friends can be challenging. Here are 6 steps to help you find your squad

Making friends as an adult can be a challenging task, especially with the lack of default spaces like school or extracurricular clubs. With physical distance from friends, limited time after work, and family obligations, it’s easy to feel isolated and disconnected from potential friendships. However, there are ways to navigate this journey and build meaningful connections with others.

Friendship coach Danielle Bayard Jackson and comedian Aaron Karo shared valuable insights on how to approach making friends as an adult. One important piece of advice is not to feel awkward or embarrassed if it’s been a while since you’ve connected with friends. Instead, be proactive and reach out to potential new friends. Don’t wait around to be invited – take the first step and initiate contact.

When starting fresh in a new community, it’s essential to shift your mindset from feeling behind the curve to being confident and purposeful. Be intentional about seeking out like-minded connections and positioning yourself strategically to invite new friendships into your life. By focusing on your interests and passions, you can make the process of meeting new people feel less daunting.

Meeting up in person is crucial for building new friendships. Whether it’s joining a club or group that aligns with your hobbies or interests, being around others who share similar passions can help you forge connections. Consistent attendance is key to building rapport and allowing friendships to develop over time.

Being upfront about your intentions is also important when seeking new friendships. Clearly communicate that you’re looking to connect with others and build meaningful relationships. By setting clear expectations from the start, you can avoid misunderstandings and establish a strong foundation for friendship.

Utilizing existing acquaintances as a starting point for developing closer friendships is perfectly acceptable. Reach out to people you’ve met through mutual connections and explore opportunities to deepen those relationships. Follow up with potential friends and be strategic in your approach to nurturing those connections over time.

Overall, making friends as an adult may require effort and patience, but the rewards of building meaningful connections are well worth it. By being proactive, intentional, and open to new possibilities, you can create a supportive network of friends who enrich your life and provide a sense of belonging.