How to make friends

ARE you stuck in a rut and want to expand your social circle but don’t know how? Check out these tips.

“I don’t have time.” Everyone is busy working long hours and wasting time in traffic that it may seem you simply can’t arrange for time to meet others.

However, there are always opportunities: your coffee break, lunch hour or that hour after work where you’d be sitting in a jam anyway.

“I don’t know what to say!’ Make it casual, like, “They’ve got curry mee on special today. Want to come with me to check it out?” or “I have an hour to kill before going home. Want to see what the coffee/wine is like across the street?”

“What if they say no?” Actually, about half of the people will have other plans or responsibilities. That’s okay because there’s always another time. And the next time they have a little time, they’re going to ask you.

“What if she/he doesn’t talk?” Invite someone you know first, someone social and outgoing, then ask a second person you know less well. Between the three of you, there will be something to talk about.

It’s also fun to talk to people out of your comfort zone. A change of pace and topic will widen your horizons and give you new insight.

“What if it’s a disaster and I get stuck for hours?”

Careful planning is the key to this. For a first chat, try, “I have 40 minutes before I have to go home. Want a frappuchino?” or “I have to be across town by seven. Fancy a coke before I go?” When time’s up, go! You can always make a second date later.