Trouble Find New Friends? Here are 12 Tips For Meeting New Friends As An Adult

Making friends as an adult can feel weirdly hard—and you’re not imagining it.
Without the built-in social circles we had growing up, connection takes a bit more intention.
But the good news? Sociologists say it’s totally doable, even if it feels awkward at first.

How To Make Friends As An Adult

• Making friends as an adult is hard—and you’re not the only one feeling it
• Sociologists have actually studied this stuff
• Post-pandemic, a lot of us are craving real connection

Why It Feels So Hard

• We don’t have built-in social circles like school anymore
• Life gets busy—work, family, responsibilities
• And yeah… putting yourself out there can feel really awkward

Proximity Matters

• We tend to bond with the people we see often
• Hang out at the same café, gym, or coworking space
• Online spaces count too—forums, group chats, apps

Join Things You Genuinely Enjoy

• Shared interests make things way easier
• Join a class, club, or group that feels fun
• Bonus: there’s less pressure to “make friends”—you’re just showing up

Be a Little Vulnerable

• Friendships grow when we’re real
• Don’t be afraid to go beyond small talk
• Try something simple like: “I’ve been trying to meet new people lately”

Show Up Regularly

• It’s not about doing big things—it’s about consistency
• Casual hangouts add up over time
• A weekly walk or trivia night can do more than you’d think

Take Advantage of Life Changes

• New job? New city? Back to social life after COVID?
• These moments are perfect for meeting people
• Chances are, others are also looking to connect

Everyone Feels Awkward

• Seriously—everyone feels weird about making friends as an adult
• Most people would actually love for someone to say hi
• You don’t need to be smooth—just be kind and curious

Not Every Attempt Will Land

• And that’s totally okay
• Think of it like dating—it takes time and trial and error
• Keep it light, and don’t take it personally

Friendship Is Something You Practice

• The more you try, the easier it gets
• You build confidence just by showing up
• It’s never too late to make new connections

Try This

• Say “yes” more often, even when it feels a little out of your comfort zone
• Start a group chat or invite a few people to hang out
• Create something recurring—board games, coffee, walks, whatever feels right

Final Thoughts

• Adult friendships take a little effort, but they’re worth it
• Go small, go steady, and go honest
• Everyone’s figuring it out—so give yourself permission to try