A busy schedule and a shy personality sometimes make it difficult to meet and meet new people. Instead of getting sucked into your agenda, take the initiative, go out and meet new people!
Steps
Method 1 of 2: Meet New People in Places You Already Frequent
Step 1. Get close to people on your daily errands
Your weekly errands likely include a trip to the grocery store, getting gas, or going to the pharmacy. While these tasks seem mundane, they are great opportunities to approach interesting new people. The next time you're in line or waiting in the same corridor with another person, get out of the shell and talk to her.
- Make it a goal to talk to a certain number of new people every time you go out. For example, try to at least say "hi" to three new people every time you run an errand.
- Don't think you need to start an important conversation; a simple hello to a new person and some basic questions are enough to start. If the person is interested and you get along, then the conversation will go on naturally.
Step 2. Take public transportation
Going to work or school is something you have to do anyway, and using public transport you kill two birds with one stone. Sitting or standing next to a new person on the bus, train, or subway is a good excuse to start talking. Plus, if you find someone you truly appreciate, they will likely take the same vehicle every day, so you will have the opportunity to review them whenever you want.
Step 3. Work away from home
If you have to study or work, or if you just want to read a book, do it in a public place instead of your home. Go to the public garden, to the library, and get to know other people who do the same. If you share a business with a stranger sitting next to you, start a conversation about your mutual interest!
Step 4. It is easier to get to know strangers you see often
Do you often see the same person in class or at work, but have never spoken to each other before? Then it's time to meet someone new. Approach this person you see often, start talking, and pass the "stranger" area you were in until recently.
Step 5. Talk to new people at meetings
If you're planning to go to a friend or family member's party, take the initiative and avoid being a wallpaper. Even if you may know many or most of those present, get out of your shell and talk to someone you don't already know.
Step 6. Exercise somewhere new
If you walk, run, cycle, think of a new place to do it. Taking your dog for a walk to the local park is an easy way to meet new people. Practicing in a busier location is a way to get to know other people who do the same thing.
Method 2 of 2: Get Out of Your Usual Path to Meet New People
Step 1. Go to the bookstore or library
There's nothing quite like wandering around the same section of books as an excuse to strike up a conversation. If you're a book eater and can't wait to pop into the library or bookstore, do so with the intention of getting new books and starting new social interests.
Step 2. Go to a free concert
In many cities there are free concerts of interesting bands. If you love music, meet others with the same interest by going to a free concert. Go a little early and stay late to talk to other fans of the show you just watched.
Step 3. Volunteer for a group you love
If you have a passion for a certain business or organization, take the opportunity to help your community and meet new people with similar interests. Volunteer for local programs on a regular basis and you will meet lots of new people without breaking the bank!
Step 4. Join a club
Even if you've never been the club type, there's nothing stopping you now! Be part of a group that interests you - runners, reading, CAI, whatever interests you. These meetings are full of people sharing something with you, and making conversation will be very easy.
Step 5. Go to a local sporting event
Whether it's the high school team or a CSI game, sporting events always attract people. Sometimes you can get in for free and the boxes are full of people. Discussing the game is an easy excuse to start a new conversation.
Step 6. Become part of a team
If simply watching a game isn't enough for you, join a local team. You will do sports, you will have fun and you will be forced to meet new people. Find out which teams are looking for new athletes, and start playing!
Step 7. Go to a free seminar
Seminars are great for many reasons: they give you a lot of interesting information, they are completely free and you have the chance to meet new like-minded people. Find out if any shops, the university or the municipality are organizing seminars that might interest you. Stopping after the event to comment on what you heard is perfect for meeting new people.
Step 8. Go to religious meetings
If you are spiritual or are part of a religious group, use this to your advantage. Go to a new church or temple in your area or a large meeting nearby. Sharing your beliefs with those around you should make it easier for you to approach new people. Also, you know that you are much closer to these people than to someone you casually meet on the street.
Step 9. Go dancing
There are many clubs that offer free dance lessons, and they are often quite crowded. Try a salsa or zumba class or go to a nightclub where people dance. If you are outgoing enough to be able to dance in front of others, you will be outgoing enough to strike up a conversation with the people you dance with.
Step 10. Go to a party
Find out at the last moment that a friend or acquaintance is throwing a party? Don't avoid the social event - add to the fun! Parties, particularly filled with people you don't know very well, are great places to meet people. Furthermore, parties organized by friends are usually free; double benefit.
Step 11. Talk to your friends
If you are looking for new people, why not ask your friends to arrange a meeting for you? Organize an event where your friends have to bring someone new, or hang out with them and their friends.
Advice
- Ask a lot of questions. If you're the one starting the conversation with a new person, don't wait for the other person to continue the conversation. If they are interested, they will find new topics for discussion, but to start, you have to be the one to break the ice.
- Don't limit yourself to just one location. Meeting new people can happen anywhere; take advantage of any opportunity that comes your way.
- If you know you're going out to meet new people, make sure you're presentable and prepared. Dress well, take care of your personal hygiene and be charged to meet new people!
