It’s a lonely world out there. Moving from strangers to acquaintances to friends is a process that takes time and effort (hopefully NOT money), but offers immense benefits. Some practical thoughts to get you started:
- Sit by someone you don’t know, when attending an event where you know most people.
- When you run into someone you recognize, but don’t necessarily remember, introduce yourself. Repeat as necessary.
- Address people by name. Smile.
- When selecting a seat, why leave a space between? If you like the person, just go in and sit next to them as if you were their friend.
- Drive together, like to meetings and parties.
- Schedule regular times with your friends, even if they aren’t frequent. Make it a tradition, like coffee on the first day of school or lunch the third Friday of every month.
- When you have enough friends, continue to watch for those who may not.
One more suggestion: if you and I are acquainted, try leaving a comment here. It’s almost like real conversation.
What thoughts would you add?
Thanks for the inspirational post. I enjoy your writing and look forward to reading your blog.
I did try to leave a comment on your last post… Blogger said you had to approve it before it would be posted.
We are not just acquainted, we’re friends! Lucky for us, we are family too. xoxo
Ohhh, these are good! Similar to something I wrote long ago and have contemplated posting. Mine is looooong though!
If you do post it, come back and leave us the link! 🙂 If people don’t want to read something long, they don’t have to.
Hi! I like the idea to schedule meeting a friend!
Another suggestion is to introduce a new friend to an old friend …
That’s a great idea, Christie! Good for everybody!
I love them all! But I especially like “address people by name. smile.” When people remember my name it means SO much to me. I know for me, I automatically like someone if they remember my name and smile at me. 🙂
What great suggestions! I love it when people remember me by name as well. I just wish I had a better memory to remember everyone I meet!
Good stuff, as usual. Having recently moved to a place I previously (20+ years ago) lived, I keep looking for old friends; but find I’ll have to make new ones. Thankfully, I’ve noticed it’s still a friendly place – everybody has a smile for you whether they know you or not!!
I’d like to add something to your list: Look through your email addresses every so often and send a hello to those you haven’t contacted for a while.