Cultivating old friendships and finding new ones can be a daunting task after 50. If you can relate to this statement, then this post is for you!
Finding ways to meet people often becomes harder as we age. Maybe it’s because we are set in our ways and less likely to put ourselves in uncomfortable situations, since we’ve learned from past experiences that we don’t always have positive outcomes. But as Lucille Ball once said, “I’d rather regret the things I’ve done than the things I have not done.”
It’s easy to keep our routines and not venture into new worlds, but if you follow these 5 simple steps you will meet people that could have a life changing impact on you.
Be committed to the fact that friendships are important
As I stated earlier, it is very easy to get stuck in your routine, which is why you need to make the decision that cultivating friendships is an absolute must.
Similar to any goal we set in life, it should be written down, have a plan to help us reach it, and also a timeline to ensure we stay focused on our end game. When it comes to a goal related to building new friendships it is not realistic to say, “I will make two new friends in three months.” In fact, it may not even be possible depending on where you live, time of year and other potential obstacles.
A better goal would be to identify new activities, a new restaurant, or even a course you can take at your local college to meet people. The good thing is you can be very creative with this and depending on what you choose you can also learn a new skill or get in shape in the process.
Recently, I checked out our local community college and they had courses such as jewelry arts, painting, pottery, charcuterie board, cake decorating and other really great courses making me really excited about this option. Plus, there is a good chance you can meet someone with common interests.
Realize that good friendships take time
I often joke that I don’t have the virtue of patience, but friendships take time and patience is definitely needed. Sometimes even though you think you’ve made a connection with someone they may not feel the same way which can be very frustrating. In these instances, it is easy to take it personally, but don’t let that deter you.
Often as we get older, we simply prefer to interact with others who have common interests, are easy to talk to, and we deem as low maintenance. There are also people that require more interaction and may want more of your time and attention then you are willing to commit to. The great part is there are many people on the hunt for new friendships similar to you, so with a little time, you will find the perfect match.
Remember as you are approaching this new journey, have an open mind, test the waters a little bit, and invest your time looking for the good in the people. If you approach it this way, even if you don’t end up with a long- term friend instantly, you will at least enjoy your journey.
It may be time for a rekindling of an old friendship
All of us have lived through many seasons of our life, and with those seasons friends have come and gone. Some of us are great at keeping our friendships strong throughout the years, and others like me, have seen many friendships dwindle through the years.
It always amazes me when I read posts or stories about old high school or college friends doing their annual trip or weekend get-away, because it is hard to keep that consistent bond as our lives are ever evolving. Kudos to those women who’ve been able to keep those relationships solid through the years.
Although some of your friendships might have dwindled through the years, there could be an old friend you’ve wanted to reconnect with. Take some time to think about past friendships you had, and who you really had a great connection with but for whatever reason you lost touch with and reach out.
Recently I reconnected with a friend I hadn’t spoken to in years. We happened to run into each other at the grocery store and made the decision to meet weekly. I forgot how easy this friendship was, and we are both so glad we are now in each other’s lives again.
Volunteer and do good in the process
I just read a quote somewhere that said something like, helping others can be a cure, not just for those who are in need but for your own soul as well. I don’t think most people would deny that when we are helping others there is a sense of satisfaction you can’t get otherwise.
There are so many options these days for volunteering, dog shelters, church volunteer activities, working with children or the elderly, sport events and so many more. Even if it isn’t something you can do daily, weekly or even monthly, you can easily find something based on your time commitment. One thing to keep in mind if you want to gain friendships in the process, look for volunteering options where you will be working with others like, Habitat for Humanity, sporting, or church events.
The reason I like this option is although there are no guarantees you will make a new friend; you will feel good about yourself, have a more positive attitude, and present as more approachable. Let’s face it, you are more likely to meet somebody when you’re feeling positive since people tend to gravitate towards others who are cheerful and exude happiness and try to avoid those who are cranky!
Personally, I say give this one a try because either way you win in the process.
Start Clubbing!
I don’t mean the kind of club where you can order drinks, flirt with the bartender, or wonder if you can pull off the newest dance moves, but if that’s your jam go for it!
I am more so talking about clubs which are a little lower key such as book clubs, health clubs, social clubs, walking or hiking clubs, and so on-you get the idea. Find your interest and Google away to find a local option near you. You can also check out Explore Worldwide where you can find solo vacation options and meet others from all over the world. What a neat way to meet people and see the world in the process.
The sky is the limit if you want to start clubbing, so start googling now to see what piques your interest and commit!
Meeting new people can be a daunting task, but it doesn’t need to be. If you follow these tips, you will be well on your way to be meeting new people, potentially learning a new skill, or taking your next dream vacation.
What are some of the ways you’ve been able to meet people? Share them with us below.