Making new friends can be daunting, but it is also extremely rewarding. After all, for the majority of us, friends are an important part of our lives. They are the ones who walk through life with us, sharing our ups and downs, as well as our pains and joys. Life would be very different if we didn’t have friends. We wouldn’t be who we are today if it weren’t for them. Take a look at some of the simple ways to make new friends.

Eliminate Fear

Meeting new people can be a frightening experience for some of us — whether the person will like us or how to keep the conversation going. The more we think about it, the more terrifying it appears. This initial fear grows into a mental fear that takes on a life of its own and unknowingly prevents us from making new friends. Such thoughts may block you from meeting new people. Shyness toward others is a symptom of fear.

Understand the Source of Fear

This brings us to the next point. In order to eliminate fear, you need to understand the source of it. What you can do first is open your heart to the person. When your heart is open, this connection between you and the other party can begin. This entails having trust, faith, and faith in the goodness of others. You can’t make new connections if you have mistrust in others or are afraid that things won’t work out. It will send the wrong signals and cause them to close their hearts to you as well. Plan to create a good impression rather than being silent.

Be Your Friend First

You cannot love others before loving yourself. Be a good friend to yourself first. Start something that will make you happy, even if it means running in the field or watching a movie. You can explore new places and purpose to be happy. Avoid moody appearances. Be kind and true to yourself.

Smile and Say Hello

A happy smile is one of the best ways to approach a stranger. This aspect brings peace. Scholars claim that a smile does not know any language barrier. When you offer a smile even to a stranger, you create an impression that you are friendly. It is hard to resist a smiling person. It paves the way for people to say hello. In other words, such an introduction opens a conversation that ends up in friendship.

Ask an Acquaintance to Introduce You

If you signed up for workshops or courses, you would not know everybody on the first day. If you know a few people, you can ask them to introduce you to friends. Also, your circle of friends will grow as you familiarize yourself with your new friends. Aspire to be friendly and create a good rapport as you interact with your new friends. Be jolly and welcoming to your friendship.

Tell a Narrative

When you meet new people, be open to things. You can take part in their discussions and share narratives. You can tell them a story and create a pleasant environment. Also, you can share stories to understand their interests. Such aspects are critical in expanding your friendship zone.

Visit Places Together

If it pleases your new friends, you can visit a commonplace. For instance, you can visit a zoo or a park and have fun. Also, walking down to a beach can be a friendly environment. You can interact with new friends as you explore.

 Volunteers to Help

As you mingle with friends, you will have issues that might be affecting them. If your school has a volunteering program, be part of it. In other words, you will interact with more people and make new friends as well. Besides, you can volunteer to help the needy in society. Such practices show how compassionate you are.

 Try a New Hobby or Activity

A playing team is a friendly team. Join an interactive activity. If you like dancing, you can join the dancing team in your vicinity. Also, you can join a football team and make friends. You need to start an activity you enjoy doing. You will have more fun around people with similar interests.

Be Kind and Open-minded

Sometimes you have a preconceived notion of the type of friend you want. Perhaps someone who understands, listens, shares hobbies, watches the same movies, has a similar educational background, and so on. Then, when you meet the person and realize that they do not match your expectations, you close yourself off. Give the friendship time to grow. More importantly, be kind and give this new friendship a chance.

Conclusion

At the end of the day, maintaining the friendship requires ongoing effort. The willingness to go the extra mile is what distinguishes great friends from acquaintances.