Navigating a large city, such as NYC, can be an arduous, but rewarding journey. So, you got a job, a place to crash, and food to eat. What’s next? Unfortunately, Friday night plans with your friends from back home aren’t available. Getting involved with the social life in a city scene, especially as an adult, can seem overwhelming and nearly impossible since it’s just so big, but we’re here with a couple of tips and tricks to help you make friends.
Co-live with others rather than going solo.
Though it may be scary and it may not turn out exactly like the friend groups in FRIENDS or How I Met Your Mother, co-living is a great way to make deeper close connections with people who already live in the city. You may also find a crash pad that’s much cheaper than you would be paying for a single studio in New York; it’s already an expensive place to live in, so knock two birds with one stone by co-living.
Meet people through work.
Don’t skip out on the happy hours or the corporate socials. Those may very well be the place where you meet your next best friend or future partner. Your colleagues are people you’ll be seeing every day regardless of your social life, so it’s a great idea to ask them out for drinks and just casually chat. Be confident in yourself and go get them!
Use social media and apps.
Bumble isn’t just for romantic relationships. The BFF setting on Bumble will show you others who are also looking for friends in your area. Hit up someone new and try something a little different. There are plenty of people out there who are looking for new friends in the big city just like you, so it’s worth getting an account and just testing the waters.
Get a pet.
Your friends don’t have to be humans! Pets are great for bonding with a cute fuzzy animal and finding a friend who will be loyal and by your side for years to come. Plus, you can take out the little one for walks in the park, especially if they’re a dog, and that way you can also meet and bond with other pet owners. Pets are a great way to take care of yourself while also finding some companionship.
Say yes as much as you can.
Turning down an event isn’t a bad thing, but turning down everything can be. When you’re invited to a party or a get together, try to say ‘yes’ as often as you can. Getting out there is the first step to making new friends. Meet them, see what their vibe is like, and put in the effort to get to know them. If it isn’t meant to be, that’s okay. But, the more you put yourself out there, the better of a chance you will have at making new friends.
Be honest, be authentic, be yourself.
This may be a given when it comes to meeting new people, but don’t pretend to be someone else. If you want to be friends with someone, you would want them to know the true you. So, gain some confidence in who you are, and show off your personality. Smile, be kind and humble, but also show your true colors. Be who you are when you meet people, and you just might end up meeting the Monica to your Rachel or the Joey to your Chandler!
Making friends can be an exhausting process, but you will get through it. Try something new and go out with someone new. Be cautious, but get out there. New York City is full of exciting adventures, and it’s up to you to make the most of it.
Looking to meet new people? Check out our app, Couplr, by clicking here.