When you ask people how to make friends as an adult, they usually give you suggestions like, “just get out there,” “join a dance class,” or, “try speed dating.”_____31_____
After all, making friends does require us to get out into the world and take a few emotional risks. Most of the time, however, we are not lacking for ideas on where to meet people. ___32_____
For this reason, most people find that reconnecting with themselves is a first step towards reconnecting with others.
If you feel tired, out of shape, or sad, most of the time, making friends is going to be extremely difficult. _____33_____
Start small. Use the1-minute technique to gradually increase your commitment to exercise. Get out into nature. Set a timer to remind yourself to get up every hour to stretch. Try gentle yoga.
While you build up your body, don’t forget to nourish your mind. Write down one thing every day that you are grateful for. _____34_____
Learn to become your own best friend.
_____35_____Instead of relying on our social circumstances to bring people into our lives, we need to change ourselves first and then invite people into our lives.
A. On the surface, these are fine suggestions.
B. Spend a few minutes every day in reflection.
C. It will be even more difficult when you are an adult.
D. We only need to know how to start a conversation with strangers.
E. We are missing the motivation and self-confidence to get started.
F. Making friends as an adult is possible, but it requires a new approach.
G. Fortunately there are plenty of simple things that you can do to increase your physical and emotional resources.