3 ways to make more friends

Step up badly familiar person or renew old ties, so as not to suffer from loneliness.

According to sociologists Freeman and Thompson, published in 1989, the number of human social relations, on average ranging from 250 to 5500 contacts. The researchers also studied the friendships. They took over the equivalent amount proximity Christmas cards that people send on average. As a result, the averaged number of friends wasSocial Network Size In Humans 121.

But no matter how vast may be your connection loved ones are usually quite small. According toSegregation in social networks based on acquaintanceship and trust 2008, the average American trusts only 10-20 people. And this amount is gradually decreasing. For example, between 1985 and 2004, on average, respondents reducedSocial Isolation in America: Changes in Core Discussion Networks Over Two Decades number of intimate friends. Instead of three, there are only two.

And it's not just a sad fact. Insulation increase leads to serious consequences. proved

Do not neglect the distant acquaintances

Even talking to people with whom you do not have strong social bonds, significantly affectedSocial Interactions and Well-Being: The Surprising Power of Weak Ties. on the emotional well-being. Possible to build a strong friendship with them, you just need time.

According to a recent studyHow many hours does it take to make a friend?, You need 50 hours of intercourse, to move from a simple love for friendship. And another 40 hours to become real friends. As a whole - 200 hours to fit in close.

Restore the old ties

Think of the people with whom you have previously had a relationship of trust. They strike up a communication will be easier. And what do you for a while not seen, giveDormant Ties: The Value Of Reconnecting new food for conversation.

Risk and share something with someone you do not know well

Try to open unfamiliar people. Telling something private, we haveSelf-disclosure and liking: a meta-analytic review to his other. In addition, we tend to harbor more sympathy to those who are already admitted to the soul.

All are in need of communication and intimacy. Quite probably familiar with pleasure will meet you. So close this article and try to make friends with someone in his entourage.

see also

• Why do ordinary people avoid mediocre friends →
• As friends affect our efficiency →
• 11 signs that it is time to end the friendship →