How to Fit In

If you want to make friends, it helps if you fit in. Even if you click with someone, if your personality is unconventional or unnerving, it might be hard to keep the friendship going. Most people prefer having a group of friends, not just one or two, so if you're a subversive nonconformist, you might be seen as social liability. Here's how to fit in with the crowd.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Be friendly and outgoing. Smile a lot. People are attracted to happiness, so if you're not feeling on top of the world, fake it with a toothy grin and an effusive, "It's SO good to see you."
2. Dress like you fit in. Rather than wearing unusual clothes or sporting a haircut that raises eyebrows and inspires gossip, stick with stylish outfits similar to what the crowd's wearing and don't do anything drastic with hair, makeup or accessories.
3. Stay under the radar. If you're a drama queen or always involved in scandals, you'll stick out rather than fit in. Instead of making everything about you, be a good listener, agree with the consensus--and if you don't agree, state your views politely or keep them to yourself.
4. Limit your creativity. If your goal is to fit in, not start a new trend, follow the herd. Throw parties that are identical to everyone else's parties. Order the same drink everyone else at the table is having.

Tips & Warnings

• The desire to fit in can lead to you compromising your morals or not being your true self. If fitting in makes you uncomfortable with yourself, make sure the sacrifice is worth it to be popular.