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LEAVER’S TOP TIP FOR MAKING NEW FRIENDS: USE YOUR PHONE

“Technology so often gets blamed for our loneliness and disconnection, but it can also be the solution. Approach people on Twitter for a coffee, make friends on Instagram or download apps like Hey! VINA, Bumble, Huggle or Badoo for their friend-making functions. The great thing about these apps, particularly for introverts, is that you can use them as a screening process for people, break the ice with digital communication and then use them to set up a face-to-face meeting. It’s far less terrifying than approaching someone in public – in a bar or cafe, at the library or a party. At least if someone is signed up to a friendship app, you know they’re willing to make new friends. That’s half of your fear of social rejection slashed!”