2. How to make friends at any age : stressLess-life

How to make friends at any age

https://ift.tt/TJpbsn4

I often find myself in conversations where people express the challenge of making new friends as they age. Many reminisce about the ease of forming friendships during their school years. Yet, as adulthood sets in, and we navigate the complexities of society and work, our social circles tend to shrink, making it increasingly difficult to forge genuine connections.

However, I’ve come to realize that age is not the main barrier to forming friendships. Rather, it’s our natural inclination to become more guarded and less open as we grow older. Building new relationships isn’t about the number of candles on our birthday cake; it’s about our willingness to be authentic, vulnerable, and trusting — both with ourselves and others.

For me, the most profound connections emerged after I hit the milestone of 30. It was a time of significant personal growth, spurred by pivotal life changes. Reflecting on this period, I see how my journey of self-discovery and healing attracted deeper friendships into my life. As I became more attuned to myself, I found myself gravitating towards individuals who valued authenticity and genuine connection.

In my younger years, I often sought companionship merely to ward off loneliness. I was a habitual people-pleaser, driven by a fear of missing out or disappointing others. It wasn’t until I embarked on a journey of self-awareness that I understood the root of these behaviors — a lack of clarity about my own identity. True friendships, I’ve learned, flourish when we have a solid sense of self and the courage to be unapologetically ourselves.

Another obstacle to making friends as we age is the tendency to remain within the confines of our existing social circles. Unlike the organic friendships of our school days, adulthood demands proactive efforts to seek out new connections beyond the familiar.

When I found myself uprooted from Hong Kong to Vancouver in 2017, I faced this challenge head-on. Stripped of the comfort of familiar faces and routines, I had to venture into uncharted territory to meet new people. It was through this process of exploration — attending meetups, networking events, and workshops — that I not only found meaningful friendships but also discovered my true passions and purpose.

I firmly believe that regardless of age or circumstance, meaningful connections are within reach for those willing to embrace new experiences and pursue their authentic selves. Along this journey, we attract kindred spirits who enrich our lives and provide unwavering support. With such a tribe by our side, saying no to anything that doesn’t align with our values becomes second nature, empowering us to live authentically and wholeheartedly.

​

Written by Tracey Zhang, a purpose-driven writer, coach, and spiritual healer who helps individuals build a strong inner self through major life transitions.

submitted by /u/traceyzhang
[link] [comments]








Related links


I want to know the mind and emotions of a man towa. I want to understand what he is thinking and feeling at any given time. I want to know what makes him happy and what makes him sad. I want to know what he fears and what motivates him. I want to know his hopes and dreams. I want to know everything about him.


Addiction Is Messy, But These Things Help Me Stay Clean


5 Ways to Use Movement (Not Exercise) to Support Your Mental Health


My Second Mother: When Someone Steps Up Like Family Never Did


just sitting silently


How to Release the Fear That Holds You Back and Keeps You Small


What Happiness Means and How I’m Boosting My Day-to-Day Joy


why am i always in one-sided relationships


Psychological behaviour of husband with his wife who failed in love before marriage


What makes you dislike yourself?


When You’re Ready for Change: You Need to Believe in Your Future Self


4 Anxiety-Calming Techniques I Wish I Used When I Freaked Out on a Plane


What type of doctors experience the most stress?


Why is it significant to overcome stress?


How I Stopped Chasing Men Who Hurt Me and Found Healthy Love : #stressless


Stay Comfortable


I have irrational thoughts that she’s better than me


Skills That You Can Learn From (A2) Trying Harder Isn\\\'t Always The Answer:stressLess-life.


How do we know what we want in our lives?


5 Simple Yet Essential Self Care Tips That Can Change Your Life


#2 . How do I stop putting my worth based on how men see me? : stressLess-life


Self love challenge - looking for a group to join!


People-Pleasers Are Liars: 3 Things We Gain When We’re Honest Instead


How to Deal With Low Moods: A 4-Step Plan to Help You Feel Better


One words to define love story Hater





does depression affect sperm quality


What is the difference between stress and emotions? The WHO has defined them as two different life skills and I am not able to make a difference.


What are some signs that show a lack of confidence in a person's speech or behavior?


Is it good to live hubby without love or marry to BF?


growing up as the only black member of a white family movie


separation anxiety mother symptoms


why self-love and self-care is important


I am very sad every day. I have decided not to live. What should I do?


why am i losing interest in things i used to love


never waste your feelings on someone who doesn't value your emotions meaning in hindi


I am very sad every day. I have decided not to live. What should I do?


Why is it significant to overcome stress?

Can-I-reduce-my-stress?

https://stressless-2021.blogspot.com/2022/06/reduce-my-stress.html

Getting Out Of A Slump

Me Exercising/dancing to Unbelievable by EMF. Not too great, but started doing this at 57 yrs......truly my inner child is coming out to play!:stressLess-life

Abandonment Issues



Increasing and practicing self worth and self love:stressLess-life

(A2) LIFE AND LOVE???:stressLess-life

Neon Genesis Evangelion and validating ones own existence:stressLess-life

Calmed myself down with loving energy.:stressLess-life

"Why do you forgive everyone but yourself?”:stressLess-life

How to accept belly fat?:stressLess-life



admiring myself all 2022 ??:stressLess-life



Self love feels so lonely:stressLess-life



Increasing and practicing self worth and self love:stressLess-life

(A2) LIFE AND LOVE???:stressLess-life

Neon Genesis Evangelion and validating ones own existence:stressLess-life

Calmed myself down with loving energy.:stressLess-life

"Why do you forgive everyone but yourself?”:stressLess-life

How to accept belly fat?:stressLess-life



admiring myself all 2022 ??:stressLess-life



Self love feels so lonely:stressLess-life









😄 " Forget the past; look forward to the future, for the best things are yet to come. ..... "