11 Easy Ways to Find and Make Friends as an Adult (Even If You're Busy)
If you're feeling like you're the only one struggling to make friends as an adult, you're not alone. A lot of people find it surprisingly hard to meet friends once they’ve left school or settled into a career. Unlike childhood or college, adult friendships take intentionality, vulnerability, and a little courage to get started.
At The Flourishing Way, we hear from clients all the time that they're craving more meaningful connection but don’t know where to begin. Whether you’ve recently moved, gone through a breakup, or are simply realizing your social circle has shifted, this post offers simple, doable ways to help you build lasting friendships as an adult.
11 Easy (and Realistic) Ways to Find and Make Friends as an Adult
1. Start Where You Are
Before you sign up for something new, look around at who’s already in your life. That acquaintance you always chat with at school pickup? The person at work you laugh with in meetings? A potential friend might already be within reach—you just have to take the next step.
2. Say Yes More Often
When someone invites you to something, even if it’s out of your comfort zone, consider saying yes. Friendships as an adult often form from shared experiences, not just shared interests. You never know who you’ll meet at a community event, trivia night, or informal gathering.
3. Join a Group, Class, or Club
Whether it’s a yoga class, improv workshop, adult sports league, or book club, showing up consistently creates opportunities for connection. Over time, familiar faces become new friends, and it gets easier to strike up a conversation.
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4. Reconnect With Old Friends
Sometimes it’s not about meeting new people. It’s about rekindling the friendships that once felt grounding. Reach out to someone you’ve lost touch with. A simple “Hey, I was thinking about you—want to catch up soon?” can go a long way.
5. Make the First Move
Waiting for others to reach out might keep you stuck. Take the initiative. Send the text, suggest the coffee date, invite someone for a walk or to the farmers market. Friendships start when someone is willing to go first.
6. Try Apps for Meeting Friends
Friendship apps are on the rise. Just like dating apps changed relationships, platforms like Bumble BFF, Hey! VINA, and local Facebook groups are designed to help adults meet friends in their area. They’re a great way to connect with people in the same season of life.
7. Attend Local Events or Workshops
Look at Eventbrite, Meetup, or your local bulletin boards for events happening near you. People who attend workshops or speaker series are usually interested in growth and meaningful conversations. These settings often make it easier to meet people naturally.
8. Volunteer for a Cause You Care About
Giving your time to something that matters to you is also a great way to meet like-hearted people. Shared purpose builds connection, and volunteering tends to draw people who care deeply about community and impact.
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9. Get Curious and Ask Good Questions
Friendships deepen when we move beyond surface-level conversation. Ask questions that invite people to share more of themselves. Try asking what’s been bringing them joy lately or what they’re currently looking forward to.
10. Don’t Underestimate the Power of Consistency
Friendships as an adult take time and repetition. Whether it’s a weekly workout class, a standing lunch, or monthly book club, building in regular connection makes it easier to grow closer over time.
11. Be the Friend You’re Looking For
Show up. Keep your word. Listen well. The way you engage with others often attracts similar energy. When you're grounded and open, you create space for others to feel safe around you.
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Use Your Existing Networks Creatively
If you know someone who knows someone in your city, ask for an introduction. Let your circle know you’re open to new friendships. You might be surprised how many people are happy to connect you with someone they think you’d click with.
Host a Casual Gathering
You don’t need a reason or a special occasion. Sometimes a backyard hangout, a park picnic, or a coffee meet-up is all it takes to begin building a community. Low-pressure environments allow people to show up as they are.
Invest in Therapeutic Community Spaces
Group therapy, support groups, and wellness circles offer a space to connect with others who value depth and healing. At The Flourishing Way, we offer several group experiences for adults seeking connection and support.
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Final Thoughts
Finding friendships as an adult doesn’t always happen overnight, but it is possible. A lot of people are in the same boat—wanting deeper connection but unsure of how to get started. With intention, openness, and time, you can create relationships that feel grounding and true to who you are.
If you're craving connection, consider reaching out to a therapist, joining a group, or simply taking the next step with someone already in your orbit. You're not alone in this.