40. Never interpret loneliness as a sign of failure.
Similar to how hunger is a warning that you need to eat, loneliness is an indication that you need to connect with others in order to improve your social ties. It’s not an indication that you are acting improperly.
41. Be attentive
It’s fun to talk about yourself. See where the conversation goes by asking them about themselves.
42. Meet up with people at a café
If you see someone sitting alone, ask if you can join them. If they aren’t using a laptop, start a conversation with them about the coffee, the setting, or the weather.
43. Look for locations that share your interests
Join a hiking group, look for book groups advertised at the neighborhood bookshop, or check to see whether the neighborhood tennis facilities have clinics or leagues. Here, you immediately recognize a connection when you meet someone.
44. Take up a new hobby
Has there ever been something you wished to do? Do you go rollerblading, bake, cook, hike, fly model airplanes, or quilt? Interest groups exist for each of these activities, and they are probably close by.
Find interest groups for your particular pastime online, then join the fun. You and everyone else share a same interest, so making friends will come easily.
45. Be open
You never know where your next “person” may turn up. Therefore, always check what is on the opposite side before closing doors.
46. Join up on a local chat website
On the website, leave a comment if you see someone performing something you enjoy. Participate in community cleanup days. Make cookies, snap a photo, and tell them you’ll meet them in the neighborhood park on a specific day and time. Invite your neighbors to join you and bring their own coffee or beverages.
47. Don’t avoid challenging conversations
Because you’ve overcome a challenging situation, conflict might actually deepen your bond. Conflict is an unavoidable element of friendships.
48. Be kind to yourself
To become a “good buddy,” you need to spend 140 hours together on average. Be kind to yourself and give yourself enough time to create ties that will last.
49. Volunteer
love reading? You may assist your neighborhood library. Become a docent at your preferred gallery or museum. Volunteer to take kids on hikes or to teach them something if you enjoy children. Work as a volunteer at a nearby nature center. You can make acquaintances with other grownups there who are there.
