Classes

• By taking classes, you will be surrounding yourself with people who share your interests. Having something in common will make it easier to talk to these people and form new friendships. Classes can be those offered at a local college or university. You can also look in the newspaper and online for other extracurricular activities and classes in your town. Find something that you'll enjoy, such as karate, cooking, dance, pottery or fitness.
  
  When you join the class, be sure to introduce yourself to your classmates, and attempt to make conversation. If you're unsure what to say, start by asking questions about the class such as, "How long have you been interested in karate?" or "Have you ever taken any other art classes?"
  
  

New Places

• If you always hang out at the same places, that reduces your chances of meeting new people and making friends. Be willing to put yourself out there. Find something you're interested in and go to a place you've never been. The new places can be planned get-togethers such as parties, support groups and classes, or you can simply check out new a pool hall, bowling alley or skating rink.
  
  Attempt to make conversation by introducing yourself to people. Be honest with people, and say things such as, "Hey, my name is John. I'm new around here and just looking to meet some people." People will often spend time talking to you and getting to know you after this. If you find someone you're interested in seeing a second time, make plans to return. Even if you don't meet anyone, you can always try again.
  
  

Mutual Friends

• Ask your current friends if they have any friends that they think you'd get along with. Set up a day where the three of you can meet up and do something. It's often easier to get to know someone if you have a mutual friend to which you can both relate. Participate in a group activity such as bowling or have lunch together and engage in conversation. If you feel a connection with the new friend, exchange phone numbers or email addresses and consider getting together again.
  
  

Team, Club or Organization

• Become a member of a group in which you're interested in participating. Some options are a sports team, book club, fitness club or library. Some groups have scheduled gatherings where you can talk to people and make friends. Sports teams have regular practices and games. Book clubs gather to discuss the book that the members were required to read that week.
  
  Take these opportunities to get to know people in your group. Remind yourself that they're probably there for the same reason as you--to socialize and to make new friends. Don't hesitate to talk to people and exchange contact information so you can get together outside the group.