How to Make Friends Instantly

Making instant friends is easier than many people think.

For some, making friends can seem like a long, arduous process. Many people tend to suffer from paralysis by analysis in that they over think the process. To them, friend-making is something that requires them to be something they're not: a social butterfly. However, finding friends fast is not hard if you go about it the right way. You don't necessarily have to go to elaborate mixers where everyone plays campy games to get acquainted. Many times, potential friends are right under your nose.

Instructions

1. Increase your visibility. Moping around the house will not garner any social interaction; you have to get out there. Start small by going to places that feature things you like to do that involve other people. Trivia nights, bowling leagues, dance classes and sporting events are a few examples. The key thing is to not be fearful of going alone at first. Don't worry about what others think, as the events of the evening will eventually have you partnering up with potential friends.

2. Explore opportunities with your existing friends. Presumably, there are people in your friends' social circles that you have yet to meet. Since your friend has things in common with you, it doesn't hurt to meet his friends, as you might have many shared interests.

3. Relax a little. If you appear too rigid, it can be difficult for someone to want to know you further. The key is to be yourself. If they like you being someone you're not, then that makes friendship difficult, as you will have to maintain the ruse indefinitely. Don't obsess over whether someone will like you because you have nothing to lose and everything to gain.

4. Engage acquaintances in your everyday life. Co-workers and neighbors are a great place to start. Try to expand the conversation beyond the bare minimum. Ask about a sports score, political headline or some other compelling current event. Often, all it takes is one little spark to begin a half-hour conversation.

5. Initiate small talk with strangers whenever possible. For those who are shy, this is easier said than done but worth the effort. Granted, you don't want to force the issue; read and react to people's demeanors. However, in just about every situation, there is some sort of tidbit on which to comment. For example, if you are on a city bus with a bad driver, a quip about it to the person next to you is in order. Chances are, you may see them the next day and have something on which to build a friendship.

References

• The Happiness Project: Friendship: Seven Tips for Making New Friends