Do you feel isolated and out of touch with your friends, family, and community? Folks are feeling more alone than ever, but it doesn’t have to be that way. Here are some tips for recharging your social life.
Join Something
Look within your community for organizations you can join. You can look for groups based on your interests. For example, attend a regular gaming night, join a book club, or get with a meetup group that aligns with your hobbies? If you’d like you can combine your desire to connect with others with your desire to give back. Look for volunteer opportunities, particularly with organizations that meet regularly.
Reach Out to Your Old Friends
Have you lost touch with people you care about? Maybe you’ve isolated a bit. Many of us have, for a variety of reasons. Get in touch with your old friends. Let them know you’ve been thinking of them.
Yes, it can feel awkward, especially if you feel guilty about neglecting relationships. Don’t let that stop you. Consider how you’d feel if you were on the other side of the issue. Wouldn’t you be happy to hear from an old pal?
Get Involved in a New Hobby That Encourages Socialization
Some hobbies encourage you to connect with others. Find one you like, and give it a try. You could look into:
- Group fitness classes
- Tennis, pickleball, or racquetball
- Pickup basketball or floor hockey
- An adult softball league
- Improv classes
- Dance classes
- Card or board game groups
Start Saying Yes
Sometimes, the hardest part of having a social life is just accepting the invitation and then getting out the door. You can do it! Once you get past the discomfort, you’ll be happy that you showed up.
Allow Yourself to Socialize Without a Deeper Purpose
It’s great to get out to volunteer, take part in a hobby, or join a class. It’s also just as valid to go out for no other purpose than hanging out with people. So, go to the local pub and hang out with your friends – maybe meet some people. Head over to a friend’s house to play Mario Party. Identify the hangout spots in your town and go there. Sometimes, just being in the right place at the right time with other people who want to socialize is all you need.
Be The Host
Don’t wait for an invitation. Step up and take your turn. Do the planning and invite people over, or put together an outing for our friends. You can host a BBQ, card game, movie night, or just invite people to come hang out.
Is there someone you’ve been wanting to know better? If you’ve wanted to meet divorced women, you may have better luck inviting them to a group outing. This takes the stress out of things, and helps everybody manage their expectations.
Put The Social Back in Social Media
Are you spending too much time scrolling or arguing with strangers? Why not use social media for its original purpose, and use it to connect with people. Start by engaging with people you like. Join groups that align with your interests and values, and see if anyone is interested in an offline gathering.
Don’t forget to check the events section! That’s where you can find scheduled gatherings that are local, and offer up opportunities to meet people you’re compatible with.
Finally, don’t forget about all of your online friends. If those relationships have progressed enough that you feel comfortable reaching out, consider planning some offline meet-ups.
Travel Alone
Go on some solo adventures. When you go out in pairs or in a group, people often assume you aren’t open to meeting new people.
When you visit new places by yourself, you may seem more approachable.
Take Small Steps to Build Your Confidence
Social anxiety and low confidence can stop you from having the social life you want. You deserve to have connections and enjoy the company of other people. Try to practice small talk as opportunities arise. Focus on your body language. Make a conscious effort to appear open and friendly. If you still struggle, talk to your doctor. There’s help available for people who have social anxiety.
Welcome New People
Are you in a social rut? Maybe your social circle is too small. Be cordial and friendly to your neighbors, co-workers, and other folks you see regularly.
Connection is Key
We all need human connection. Try some of these strategies to help you improve your social life, meet new people, and form lasting friendships.