Friends are like the secret ingredient that makes life way more fun. They help us find meaning and security, boost our self-esteem, and bring a ton of happiness. Feeling connected is one of the biggest predictors of happiness, while loneliness can lead to health issues and even a shorter lifespan.

But let’s be real, we’ve all had those moments scrolling through our phones, unsure of who to call to hang out with. Realizing you don’t have enough close friends can be a lonely feeling. And you’re definitely not alone here. Disconnectedness is super common, especially now. Many people want more friends but don’t know how to find them. Young folks, in particular, were hit hard by the pandemic, missing out on social interactions in schools and dorms, potentially losing lifelong friends they’d never get the chance to make.

Thankfully, it’s not too late. Friends are out there to be found. The truth is, making friends isn’t complicated, but it’s not always easy either. People typically become friends by spending casual time together. Back in the day, humans lived in small communities where everyone just ended up hanging out with whoever was around. That’s why school and university are such prime times for making friends; everyone’s stuck together with similar schedules, giving plenty of chances to bond over shared experiences.

Studies show that proximity often matters more than having similar interests. For example, students living closer together are more likely to become friends. And just showing up regularly in places, like classes, can make people like you more. So, the biggest rule of making friends? Spend time with people in real life; it beats all other advice.

It’s easy to let friendships slide when life gets busy. Work, commuting, romance, and kids can take up so much time that hanging out with friends feels like an extra chore. Even teenagers are spending more time on TikTok than actually socializing. But friendships need regular care. It’s easy to lose touch, and when a friendship fades, it’s never just one person’s loss—both sides miss out.

Another tricky thing is how friendship networks work. Most people tend to have fewer friends than their friends do. If a central person in your social circle moves away or your circle changes because of a breakup, it can feel like you’ve lost more friends than you actually have.

Making friends means prioritizing relationships, investing time, and showing people you care. Look at your life and figure out where you can make more room for friendships.

Developing new friendships can take weeks or months. It’s all about spending quality time and finding common interests. Extroverts might look for places with lots of stimulation, like bars or events, while introverts might prefer quiet places like bookshops or parks.

Activity-based friendships are popular, so joining local clubs, volunteering, or gaming groups is a good idea. Workplaces can also be great for making friends, especially if you work with like-minded people.

Then there are those old friends you’ve lost touch with—sometimes, reviving those connections just takes a simple call or invitation. People often appreciate when you reach out, even if it’s been a while.

Creating opportunities to hang out is vital. Organize a dinner party, a football game, or a board game night. Inviting people over signals that you’re interested in forming friendships.

Making the first move when you meet someone you click with can be scary, but it’s worth it. They might be just as interested in friendship as you are. Keep in touch, be patient, and take small steps toward building meaningful connections.

People love talking about themselves. Show genuine interest in their lives, and share your own experiences too. It’s about finding a balance between listening and sharing. Friend-making isn’t an exact science, but being laid-back, having fun, and being open to social opportunities will help.

At the end of the day, everyone’s brain is wired to seek connection. So many people are looking for close relationships just like you. Opportunities for new friendships are everywhere, and plenty of folks would love to have you as a friend.

So, go out there and start making some new friends. Good luck on your friendship journey!