How to Make Friends

Making friends can be very hard for some people. I was one of them. I struggled growing up with being shy, so I struggled with making friends for a long time. So what can we do when we feel shy? How can we fix it and communicate better with those around us? Here are some tips and tricks that have helped me make friends throughout the years and talk to others.

Find Activities You Enjoy

This could make a bigger impact than you might realize! After all, it is important to remember that great minds think alike. When you find an activity that interests you, you also find something in common with other people that are probably around your age. This in itself could make talking to others easier! If you are having trouble thinking of what groups to be a part of, here are a few ideas that might help you get started.

Band/Musical Groups (I was in my high school marching band and it was so much fun!)
Art Clubs
Sports Teams/Clubs
Girl Scouts
Fandoms (in other words, connecting with other people who are fans of the same movies, music, etc as you)
Dance and Cheer Groups

Try Starting a Conversation

Yes, I know... this can be intimidating! But trust me, you can do it! it can be as simple as asking the other person how their day was, or even their plans for later. Sometimes, you can even find that you share something similar with the other person that you can continue the conversation with.

Talk With People You Already Know

Maybe you have people that you work with or frequently sit next to in class that you can build a frienship with. It wouldn't be a bad idea if you share similar interests to try and build a friendship with them! If nothing else, maybe try to spark more conversation with them.

Take Some Risks

This all sounds super scary to someone who is not always used to this! But I promise everything will be fine and work out for the best. I have been through it, and you'll never know what you could be missing if you never try and take a risk. Talk to that person you want to talk to! Join that club! You will never know if you never try. If it doesn't work out, that's ok. There's always more opportunity to take a chance somewhere else in the future!

Stay True to Yourself

As some like to say, "your vibe will attract your tribe." When you are staying true to yourself, you will likely find yourself meeting people that you can get along with and start to grow friendships with. It is very important, however, to remember that friendships don't always start right away. Some take longer to warm up than others, and it doesn't mean that they don't want to talk to you. The right people will come in time!