The Importance Of New Friends

By ALICE O’BRIEN Alice O’Brien Counselling, Newmarket

Last month I embarked on a trip to Galway for the weekend. Nothing very unusual about that really, a trip to the city of the tribes. What was different for me is that I went solo as part of an organised break with Rorys Travel Club. For those not familiar with the wonderful Rory, he is a travel agent of sorts who organises tripsnear and far- for people who would otherwise be travelling alone. He connects the group beforehand and organises activities like shared meals or sight-seeing trips. A great idea of those of us who want to get away but don’t fancy spending long periods of time in solitude. I met a lovely bunch of people and

had a great weekend. Making new friends as adults is a daunting task. We know the importance of connection, of broadening our horizons, but age can make us self-conscious and even a bit cranky. Even though it can be challenging and requires effort, reaching out and trying new things can be so beneficial to our mental health. If you don’t like the idea of immersing yourself in a full weekend away making new friends, there are still things you can do to widen your social circle:

• Be open and approachable. Accept invites to events. Show guanine interest in others and what they are doing and suggest tagging alone to anything you find interesting.

• Pursue shared interests. Joins clubs, take up activities like yoga or fitness classes or attend networking events in your professional field.

• Be consistent- friendships take time so keep showing up. Follow up with people you meet, send a message or suggest meeting for coffee. Don’t take any rejection personally, keep putting yourself out there.

There are so many benefits to making new friends once we get over the initial effort, it reduces loneliness and boasts happiness to be connected. Friendships can help to lower stress and anxiety levels and improves personal growth by providing us with different perspectives on life. So, join that class, go to that event or check out Rory- we can never have enough friends.