It has been said time and time again that we are the sum of the five people we spend the most time with. The company we keep reflects something about us. If we hang out with questionable characters, even if we choose not to partake in certain frowned upon activities, people may deem us guilty by association. Fair or unfair, it happens. And while I am a huge proponent of you do you, don’t worry about what other people think, this brings up a question I have been asked before: How do you find “good” friends?
As social media has taken such prominence in our lives, many studies have shown that we are more connected than ever, yet we feel more alone than we have ever felt. We have tons of “friends” on social media, but we have lost real, meaningful connections with others.
When we are younger and are in school, we can form friendships easier. But as a young adult, how can you meet new people to develop great, meaningful friendships? Here are some ideas:
1.) Join a Meet Up group in your area or take a class. Having a hobby in common is a great place to meet new people that you can learn with and have fun doing something you enjoy. Maybe that’s a writing class or photography meet up.
2.) Volunteer your time to a cause you feel passionate about. Again, this is a great place where you already share a commonality and passion.
3.) Use social media to reconnect with old friends. Instead of keeping your conversations just on social media, make a coffee date and actually get together.
4.) Download a friend-making app. Apps like Bumble BFF, Hey! VINA and Atleto are places you can start to find local people who share similar interests.
Most importantly, put yourself out there! You won’t find a good tribe if you don’t put yourself out there.
