Making new friends is hard, and what’s even harder is putting yourself out there. Sadly the two go hand and I think we can all agree that meeting people online absolutely SUCKS!
So get out of the house friend and go meet some new people. Unsure what to do though? Don’t stress, everyone is in the same boat, here are some ways you can get out of the house and make some new besties, or find your newest love.
Social Sport Organisations
One of the easiest and most fun ways to get out and meet people in a (mostly) injury free way is to join an organisation that hosts sport competition at a completely social level. You can form your own team and meet some other teams, or even sign up completely your own and be placed in a team with other like minded individuals. Play a non-contact favourite like touch rugby, netball, futsal, heck some even offer dodgeball. There are many options for your choice in organisations that do this these days. Urban Rec appears to be the most popular and most common to find across the nation but a quick google search online might help you find one closest to your area.
Cooking Classes
Partaking in a cooking class isn’t only a great way to meet new people, it’s also a way to then look super impressive when you invite them to a dinner night at your place after you’re besties. From beginner classes to learn some kitchen essentials to some cuisine specialty classes. Cooking classes are fun, and sometimes romantic way to meet some new people.
Improv/Theatre Classes
Now, a dear friend whom I never would’ve pictured doing this, just told me they’re doing an improv class to meet people and they’re loving it. Plus, it’s a great way to do something different and relieve some stress. Take a look at your local theatre and see if they offer classes or have a show coming up you can take part in and meet some new theatre nerds!
Volunteer to a Local Community/Charity
Want to give back to the community? Well it’s an excellent way to both fill your soul and get to know the people that live around you. From shelters to sports clubs there are plenty of places you can volunteer to help at. Help a local theatre, support behind the scenes at a local sports club, it’s a brilliant way to do good and meet people around the community.
Book Clubs
Do it! Who doesn’t love a wine and a book. Expand your literary knowledge and make some laid back friends at the same time. Finding a book club can be tricky but that’s what social media is for now. Search on Facebook, online, or even some apps like Meet Up are great to help find others like yourself who want to mingle over a book!
Run Clubs
Don’t do it! Unless you really hate yourself. Nah, I joke of course. Run clubs have become a great way to meet other people who like to keep fit and meet people outdoors. For a while there, run clubs became the new fad way to meet other singles. If you don’t mind not looking your best and being a wee sweaty, run clubs are genuinely a phenomenal way to stay active and make new friends (or partner ;))
Sporting Leagues
Want to do a bit more than just casual social sport? Some more official sports team in your area are an excellent way to elevate your love of sport and meet others in the same place you are. Get behind the club culture, volunteer to run the bbq, run waters, and of course take your team to the finals and build a strong bond.
New Friends Meet Ups
Now hear me out, I know this one may bring up some social anxiety for some. But earlier this year I tried a meet up brunch. An organisation held a brunch with the specific goal to meet others around the same age as you and get to know each other over a drink. The one I tried out was called Conscious Connections and they have multiple events across many major cities in Australia. They offer, Brunches, Games Night, Halloween Parties, and Wine Dinner. When I signed up I took a questionnaire where I filled out some details on who I wanted to make as friends and what I personally loved. I was then paired on a table with other people I “matched” with and we were even given prompts to help get the conversation ball rolling. I know it sounds lame and can bring some feelings of anxiety but damn it I’m too old to pretend like I’m too cool to make friends. Do it, trust me, you might just make a new bestie. (me and my table still catch up for pub trivia every Tuesday)
Meet Up Apps
I know I said get off the apps but some apps are purpose built to make new friend groups. No I’m not talking about Tinder or Bumble. Meet Up and Butter are examples of apps where you can find or create events with the sole purpose of meeting new people. Invite strangers bowling, or tag along to a groups bouldering session. Some people have had immense success meeting new friends through these apps.
