No one said making friends was easy, but the first step in meeting people is getting out there. Go to meetings, church and other sorts of gatherings. You'd be surprise how many people are like you - feeling self conscience and awkward, but once you strike up a conversation, you will find that you have some other things in common. Next, attend a dinner party, bible study or other small group activity. This allows you to engage in conversation in a more intimate setting usually with people who have similar interests and knowledge.
Unfortunately, these types of gatherings can be hard to find. Volunteer! I have found that you meet some of the greatest people when volunteering. People who volunteer are dedicated and altruistic. Some of my closest friends I met were through service projects. There are many ministries and organizations that would love to have you serve with them, so there is no excuse not to get out there and meet people while using your hands and feet. :)
Lastly, follow up with people you meet. Call, e-mail or even connect on social networks like Facebook or Twitter with people you meet at church, work or even on the street. How many times have we had a great conversation die because we never took the next step to continue the conversation another time.
To sum it up, the best way to meet people is to cast away your fear and anxiety and put yourself out there. Let the world see what a wonderful person you are BECAUSE YOU ARE.
Tell me your thoughts, experiences and tips that you've used in meeting people.
My main problem in not knowing what to say. I become incredibly tongue tied and when you couple that with my very deep shyness it just means I freeze. I work on it every day, and am learning a lot of what not to do in my process.
ReplyDeleteMine is definitely through church - small groups, etc. Getting involved as much as I can! I am having to do that at a new church I'm attending, even though I have an established group of friends in Dallas, this is important to me. Gotta jump in and see what's out there!
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