Friends Make The World Go ‘Round

Surprising, but in this “connected” world we live in, a lot of people are actually lonely. But there’s no need to be!

It’s true – sometimes we get so busy we don’t make time to socialize. Before you know it, your friends have all gone their own way and you find yourself left alone, watching TV night after night or spending time on the computer.

The computer, you say, can help you meet people. Sometimes, true, but more often than not it’s just faceless, meaningless chatroom conversation. It’s better to get out, see people face-to-face, socialize, have fun!

We’ve heard all the reasons you don’t get out: You’re too busy, too tired, too shy, too frustrated by the social scene, and just overwhelmed by it all. But the alternative is to be alone.

So here are 25 places you can go to meet or just be around other people. All you have to do is leave your house! You have nothing to lose and so much to gain: FRIENDS! Change your attitude, be open to possibilities, relax, and have fun.

1) Join a health club or fitness group. It’s a two-fer: you’ll look better and feel better – both physically and emotionally.

2) Take a class, any class. Again, it’s a two-for-one: learn something new and make new friends with similar interests. Conversation is easier if you have something in common.

3) Go to a museum. Many museums have special events. Become a member and meet other like-minded people.

4) Attend sporting events. Whether soccer, football, basketball, professional or college sports, you’re guaranteed to have fun.

5) Check out flea markets and antique shows or auctions. While you’re browsing the finds, you can people watch.
6) Play a sport. Have you ever wanted to play soccer after watching a game on TV? Lots of towns have adult sport programs. Volleyball or tennis anyone?

7) Join a book club. Get information from your local library. Discussing books and sharing your thoughts is a great way to get to know people.

8) Join a singles group. Need we say more? There are many singles organizations out there that plan dances, get-aways, etc. All you need to do is join in!

9) Volunteer: Help build houses for Habitat for Humanity, give out beverages at marathons, or join one of the many volunteer organizations in your area (for ideas find your local RSVP at www.nationalservice.gov/programs/senior-corps/rsvp).

10 )Have a party. Invite your friends, ask them to invite two friends, and so on.

11) Learn a craft. Take craft classes at your local community center or craft store.

12) Join a business association. Networking will build your business and grow your circle of friends.

13) Go to high school/college reunions. A great way to reconnect with your old best friend!

14) Get a dog and walk everywhere. Go to parks, the beach, the store. Dogs are great people meeters!

15) Go to every party you’re invited to. Even if you don’t want to go…go. You never know who you’ll meet.

16) Join an investment club. Make money and friends!

17) Travel. Go to the islands, Europe, your state’s capital. Talk to everyone. Learn about their culture.

18) Attend seminars. Lots of people go to seminars alone, and it’s easy to start a conversation.

19) Go to wine tastings. Investigate the calendar of events at local wineries and restaurants.

20) Go skiing, snowmobiling, snowboarding.

21) Take a yoga or Tai Chi class. Relieve tensions and meet other enlightened people.

22) Get a new job. Is your job boring or going nowhere? Maybe you need a change. A new job is a great place to create new relationships.

23) Join a women’s or men’s group.

24) Take up acting or a musical instrument.

25) Talk to everyone, everywhere.

It’s not difficult. You just need to get out.. Remember: you can never have too many friends!