Making friends can be a little overwhelming and daunting for some people
You have opportunities to make friends at every stage of your life, so being able to make friends easily is a helpful skill to develop. Hopefully these 5 simple tips will help you:
1. Just be yourself
You shouldn’t have to change who you are to make friends; trying to be someone else all the time is exhausting! Just be yourself and let others see the real you.
A good friend will like you for who you are, and if they don’t, then they are not the type of friend that you want to have.
Remember, if possible use open and friendly body language, like smiling, relaxing your shoulders and looking people in the eye, rather than hiding your face and looking down, as this will show others that you are friendly and approachable.
2. Be open to trying new things
Sometimes, meeting people can be difficult.
Trying new hobbies or interests that get you out and about, helping you meet new people. This could involve volunteering locally, or joining a club at school or outside of school.
3. Look for opportunities to talk to someone
Even simply saying ‘hello’ is a great way to start a conversation with someone.
You could also try conversation starters, such as giving a compliment. For example, ‘I love your jacket, where’s it from?’
Try and keep the conversation going by asking open questions (those which invite people to say more than just ‘yes’ or ‘no’) as this will help you find out a bit more about the other person.
4. Pursue common interests
From talking to someone, you may find out that you have similar interests or hobbies.
Using this can help build a friendship as you have something in common that you can discuss or do together.
5. Make the effort to stay in touch
Friendships take time and effort, but a good friendship will be worth the effort.
Showing willingness to stay in touch will help build upon the friendship. You can also use this to get to know them better or arrange to meet up and do something.
how to get help
If you have any more questions on this area or would like to speak to somebody about this topic, have a look at the links or search for your local services in the blue box below. Alternatively you can always contact your school nurse.
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Remember: Making new friends can be difficult and sometimes results in rejection. When this happens, it doesn’t mean that it’s your fault or that you are a bad friend, it could simply be that that person was having a bad day or has different interests to you.
Don’t let this put you off making new friends, even if you had a bad experience, as not everyone will be like this.
Find help in your local area
Find help in your local area
Find out what services are available to you in your area. Remember your school nurse is always there to give you confidential help and support.
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