Join a club This is a great way to find other people who share your passions. Whether it’s books, board games, gardening, extreme kayaking, or world history, there’s a club out there for you. Your local library (or bookstore), newspaper, or community center will probably have some club/event listings but it’s also worth scanning the bulletin boards at campus recreation halls, music venues, theatres, and coffeeshops as well. Here are some online sources: Meetup.com Groupspaces.com MEETin.org Citysocializer.com Take a class If you’re no longer in school, consider enrolling in a professional development and/or personal improvement class for adults. This is a great way to meet people who share your interests (like learning Japanese, ayurvedic cooking, or online investing). Look to your nearest campuses for “informal” or “extension” class listings. Become a regular Be bold and take yourself out to dinner to your favorite restaurant (bring a book or writing journal to keep you company if you feel overly uncomfortable). Introduce yourself to the servers/staff and try to start up a conversation with any nearby patrons. There may even be an established regular already there! Talking points: “Sorry to interrupt, I’m just curious what book you’re reading?” “Excuse me, that smells amazing--is that the tomato basil soup?” “Pardon me, I couldn’t help but overhear your talking about American Gods--love that show--what did you make of the last episode?” Throw a dinner party or host a potluck This is a great way to establish yourself as a “friend connector.” If you know two of your friends would get along well, invite both of them. Allow them to bring their friends to expand your social circle. Share your skills If you’re a good handyman, painter, or web designer, offer your help to others who might benefit from your skillset. Some things you can say to a friend or acquaintance: “If you ever need my help around the house, I’d be happy to — give me a call.” “You know, I actually went to school for accounting. I’d be happy to kick around some numbers for you if you’d like?”