Join Allie Volpe, a Vox senior reporter who focuses on friendship, and Keren Landman, MD, also from Vox, as they tackle the tricky terrain of making friends as adults. They discuss the isolation many feel in post-pandemic life and the importance of shared values. Discover practical strategies for initiating connections, the art of small talk, and even how to navigate friend-making apps. With personal anecdotes and relatable advice, this conversation is packed with insights to help you break down barriers to friendship!
Navigating adult friendships necessitates intentional efforts to connect, especially after the social isolation caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Utilizing friendship apps and participating in community activities can significantly enhance the chances of meeting like-minded individuals for meaningful connections.
Deep dives
Struggles of Making Friends Post-Pandemic
Navigating adult friendships can be particularly challenging, especially following the social isolation brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic. Many individuals, like Claire, feel a sense of loneliness and struggle to connect with new people after returning to normalcy. The concept of the 'Seattle freeze' highlights the difficulty of forming connections in certain environments, where people may seem friendly but seldom follow through on plans. This shift in social dynamics emphasizes the need for intentional efforts to build friendships and find a sense of community.
Finding Like-minded Friends
Identifying and connecting with individuals who share similar values is crucial for forming meaningful friendships, especially in a post-pandemic world. Claire's journey underscores the importance of seeking socially conscious friends who respect her desire to maintain COVID precautions. Experiences from others illustrate how discussing safety measures and creating low-pressure environments can help establish connections. Additionally, fostering friendships through shared outdoor activities or casual gatherings provides a safe space for building connections without overwhelming the participants.
Practical Strategies for Meeting New People
Creating opportunities to meet new people requires active engagement and a willingness to approach others. Strategies such as initiating conversations, being explicit about wanting to hang out, and expressing interests can pave the way for new friendships. Participating in classes, clubs, or community events presents chances to connect with like-minded individuals while taking the pressure off one-on-one interactions. Emphasizing the importance of regularity in plans helps solidify connections and alleviate any doubts about mutual interest.
Utilizing Technology and Broadening Expectations
Friendship apps have emerged as a valuable tool for connecting with others, particularly for those new to an area. These platforms can facilitate initial interactions before transitioning to real-life meetups, making the process feel less daunting. However, it is essential to manage expectations, understanding that friendships often require time and effort to nurture. Acknowledging that friendship isn't always about constant entertainment, but rather about shared experiences and understanding, can lead to more fulfilling connections.
Adulthood comes with a lot of perks: You can set your own bedtime or eat candy for breakfast. But there is at least one thing that’s easier to do as a kid: making friends. That’s why Claire called us this week — she’s moved to a new city and wants to know: How do adults make new friends? Jonquilyn Hill chats with Vox senior reporters Allie Volpe and Keren Landman, MD, who share some tools to break the ice and find friends who align with where you are in life right now.
And now it’s your turn. After listening to the episode, call us up and help answer this week’s question: What is your advice for making a new friend? Give us a call and tell us your story: 1-800-618-8545.