Your late 20s and early 30s are transforming and exciting times for your personal growth. Maybe you became financially independent or moved to a new city to pursue your dream job. Or may perhaps you have just tied the knot, bought your first home or are about to have a baby. Now you are slowly adjusting to your new life and the different role you are performing in your new life. But in the midst of all this, you may have noticed some of your friendships falling out of sync. You feel more disconnected from your close friend’s group.

Research says that in our mid-20s our friend circle gets smaller. People become more focused on certain relationships and career and maintaining both. Kunal Bhattacharya a co-author of the Social focus and friendship study said that “ You have new family contacts developing, but your casual circle shrinks.” But we humans as social-emotional animals always need a casual friend a companion a partner a like-minded non-judgemental people with whom we can be what we are. We want someone who can hear and talk with us without any filter. 

Making new friends can be a bit challenging, especially in the digital age. With social media dominating our lives, it’s easy to feel like we’re connected to everyone, yet still, feel lonely. And this loneliness leads you to danger sometimes. However, social media the so-called villain can also be a useful tool for making new friends if you use it in the right way. As we all have to accept it, unfortunately this is the only way we can easily connect with people. Here are some tips on how to make new friends in the era of social media.

1. Join Social Groups or Communities

Social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram have many groups and communities that cater to different interests and hobbies. Joining these groups can be an excellent way to meet like-minded people and start conversations. For example, if you’re interested in cooking, join a cooking group and share recipes with other members. And you can make or handle this kind of group by yourself also. Organize different activities based on your choice and connect with people easily and discreetly.

2. Attend Online Events

Since the time of the pandemic, it became very often we cannot meet in person, but many events are now happening online. These events can be a great way to meet new people who share your interests. Look for virtual book clubs, online classes, or webinars that relate to your hobbies or passions. These events often have chat rooms or discussion boards where you can interact with other attendees. And after some sessions with online friends, you can plan to meet up with them in person.

3. Volunteer

Volunteering is an excellent way to meet new people while doing something good for your community. Look for volunteer opportunities in your area or find virtual volunteering opportunities online. Not only will you meet new people, but you’ll also feel good about helping others.

4. Participate in Online Challenges or Games

Online challenges or games are a fun way to interact with people online and make new friends. Look for challenges or games related to your interests, and join the fun. You can comment on other people’s posts, share your content, and start conversations with other participants. It sounds so cliché but yes if you are genuine respectful and kind in your communication, you can find a good friend by being a good friend.

5. Be Authentic

Finally, being authentic is important when trying to make new friends online. Don’t pretend to be someone you’re not or try to impress others with fake stories or interests. Be yourself, share your genuine interests, and be open to learning about others. Remember that making new friends takes time, and not everyone you interact with will become a close friend. Be authentic in your viewpoints, communication and interaction.

Social media can be a useful tool for making new friends if you use it in the right way. Joining social groups, attending online events, starting conversations, volunteering, participating in online challenges, and being authentic are all effective ways to make new friends in the digital age. Remember to stay safe online, respect others’ boundaries, and take your time to build meaningful connections. You can make new friends and expand your social circle with a little effort.