Making friends as an adult is not always easy, and it’s not something many of us are prepared for. Gone are the days of trading cards, running around the playground, or meeting up in your backyard to play ball or go for a swim.
The COVID-19 pandemic has led to increased isolation, which means that it is harder than ever to make new connections or have a vibrant social life.
If you are looking to expand your social circle, here are 10 COVID-friendly ways to make friends as an adult.
- Join Facebook groups. There are online groups for nearly every interest or hobby.
- Try an online book club. Read through books with new friends and meet virtually to discuss.
- Experiment with social apps. There are several popular friend-finding apps out there. Even some dating apps are offering features for finding friends.
- Join an outdoor Meetup. Meetup.com lists groups in your city that meet outdoors.
- Meet your neighbors. Do you know your neighbors? Try inviting them to a backyard picnic or barbeque.
- Start your own club. Have a hobby or activity you really enjoy? Start your own virtual or socially-distanced club and meet like-minded people.
- Reach out to old friends. Sometimes old friends can be great new friends.
- Take adult classes. Your local library, community center, college, theater or art studio probably offer adult classes.
- Visit a park. Meet new people from your area by visiting a local park. If you have a dog or a child, strike up conversation with other parents or dog owners.
- Volunteer. Joining a movement or volunteering for a cause you care about can be a great way to meet other like-minded people. Even during COVID-19, many organizations are offering outdoor or distanced volunteer opportunities.
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