When your children leave for college and move out, it becomes increasingly evident that you have way more time on your hands. While some parents eagerly await this newfound free time, many are shocked to realize that they are lacking friendships and feel lonely. It is easy to see how friendships have been put on the back burner for far too long among the chaos of raising children. Some of the friends we have made along the way seem to disappear when the weekly soccer games, school events, and other community activities that we depended on to regularly see each other cease to exist.
Friendships are vital and according to a Harvard study, they have even been shown to improve health and increase longevity. The reverse is true as well, as loneliness has been shown to decrease longevity and increase depression and cognitive decline.
The empty nest is the ideal time to reconnect with old friends and forge new friendships. So don’t be afraid to put yourself out there and make some new friends. It might seem daunting at first, but with a little effort and a willingness to take a chance, you can form all sorts of meaningful connections and friendships. Here are some tips to get you started:
Find a hobby or activity that you enjoy
One of the best ways to meet new people is to do something you enjoy. Reconnect with activities that you previously liked but have not had time to pursue since having children. If you love painting, why not sign up for a weekly painting class at your local art studio? Or if you enjoy running, consider joining a local running group. Not only will you get to do something you enjoy, but you’ll also have the opportunity to meet like-minded people.
Join a group or class for something you’ve always wanted to try
Is there something you’ve always wanted to learn or try, but never had the chance? Now is the perfect time to go for it! Consider joining a group or taking a class for something you’ve always wanted to do. Pickleball anyone? There is a reason this has become the fastest-growing sport- it is fun, social, and gets you moving. You might want to try your hand at cooking, learn a new language, or learn how to play bridge. Whatever it is, it’s a great way to meet new people who share your interests. The repetition of seeing the same people on a regular basis has been shown to help forge friendships, as familiarity grows and strengthens your connections.
Volunteer your time
Not only is volunteering a great way to give back to your community, but it’s also a great way to meet new people. If you have a soft spot for animals, consider volunteering at your local animal shelter. Or if you’re passionate about helping those in need, sign up to volunteer at a food bank or soup kitchen. Many hospitals welcome volunteers into the NICU to cuddle newborns which can be a remarkable experience. Consider mentoring foster teens or spending time helping at a senior center. Not only will you be making a difference, but you’ll also have the chance to meet new friends who share your values.
Join a club or organization
This is often the same advice parents give to their college students and is beneficial for parents as well. Whether you’re interested in politics, art, or just want to hang out with other empty nesters, joining a club or organization is a great way to meet new people. If you have a love for literature, consider joining a book club. Or if you enjoy staying active, look for a local hiking or cycling group. You can find groups for just about anything these days, so take a look around and see what interests you.
Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there
Go out and socialize! This one might seem obvious, but it’s worth mentioning. The more you put yourself out there, the more likely you are to meet new people. So don’t be afraid to go out and socialize, even if it’s just going to a local coffee shop or restaurant. You never know who you might meet!
Say Yes to invitations! Even if you’re feeling a little hesitant, try saying yes to invitations that come your way. It might be a bit intimidating at first, but the more you do it, the easier it will become. Plus, you never know what kind of adventures (and friendships) might come your way as a result.
Making friends as an adult can be intimidating, but don’t let that hold you back. The more you put yourself out there and make an effort to meet new people, the easier it will become. So don’t be afraid to take a chance and make the first move. Invite that new acquaintance out for coffee and initiate plans. You never know what kind of amazing friendships you might form as a result.
Use Meetup
If you’re looking for a more structured way to meet new people, consider using the website and app Meetup. It’s a platform that allows you to find and join groups of people who have similar interests and hobbies. For example, you might find a group for empty nesters in your area or a group for people who love to eat pizza, ski, or knit. It’s a great way to connect with people and form new friendships. You can even start your own meetup group if you can’t find one that you like.
Take a trip
Who says you have to make friends in your own town? One of the best ways to meet new people is to get out of your comfort zone and try something new. So why not take a trip somewhere and see what happens? You might just meet some amazing people along the way. If you are married this is the perfect time to plan an “emptynestcation” or join a travel group. If you are single you might want to travel solo, organize an overdue girls trip, or join an organized trip such as a yoga or cycling trip. Cruises are also ideal for meeting new people and creating new bonds through your adventures.
Be yourself
This might seem like a no-brainer, but it’s worth mentioning. The more genuine and authentic you are, the more likely you are to attract the right people into your life. So don’t try to be someone you’re not in an effort to make friends. Just be yourself and let your personality shine through. You’ll attract the right people for you that way.
Host a party or gathering
If you’re feeling a little hesitant about going out and socializing, why not bring the socializing to you? Hosting a party or gathering at your home is a great way to connect with people in a comfortable and familiar setting. Consider inviting a group of people over for a game night or hosting a barbecue in your backyard. Encourage friends to bring new friends along also. Not only will you get to enjoy the company of others, but you’ll also have the opportunity to connect with old friends and potentially meet new friends.
Attend local events and festivals
Check out what’s going on in your community and try attending local events and festivals. Not only will you get to experience new things and have some fun, but you’ll also have the opportunity to meet new people. For example, you might find a local music festival or farmers market that you enjoy, and who knows, you might just meet some new friends there.
Connect with people through social media
While it’s important to have in-person connections, social media can be a great way to meet new people as well. You might find a local Facebook group for people with similar interests or join an online forum for people in your area. You can also use social media to connect with friends of friends, which can be a great way to expand your social circle.
Consider joining a gym or fitness class
Exercise is not only good for your physical health, but it can also be great for your mental well-being. Plus, it’s a great way to meet new people. Consider joining a gym or signing up for a fitness class. Not only will you get to work on your fitness goals, but you’ll also have the opportunity to meet people who have similar interests.
Start a book club or movie club
Do you love reading or watching movies? Why not start a book club or movie club with some friends or neighbors? It’s a great way to get together and discuss your favorite books or movies, and it’s also a great way to meet new people who share your interests. You might even make some lasting friendships as a result.
Host a college care package party
This is a great way to get all your mom friends back together if it has been too long. We often form wonderful friendships with the parents of our children’s friends, and chances are they may be feeling lonely too. Invite them over, catch up on empty nesting and share updates about the kids. Everyone can bring a small item for each college student, and write notes. Have fun assembling care packages for your college students in the process and make sure to make plans to get together again soon.
Be open to new experiences
The more open you are to trying new things, the more likely you are to meet new people. So don’t be afraid to step outside of your comfort zone and try something new. You never know who you might meet or what kind of friendships you might form as a result.
I agree we need to be open to new experiences. Try new hobbies and enjoy everything.
I was lost when my child went away to school. After having a packed athletic schedule, As the parent of a varsity athlete, I was often traveling. It took until the sports were finished to finally dig into more routine socializing. Everything you mentioned here is excellent advice: be yourself and engage in activities you love. The friends will fall into place.
These are really great tips! Thanks for sharing in this article!
This is a really great list. It can be hard to meet new people. I like a lot of your tips.