How to Make New Friends (in the Sacramento Bee)
By Christina Ianzito
April 17, 203
“There are so many reasons why you might leave a longtime hometown to relocate somewhere new, especially as you grow older. Maybe you want to live in a warmer climate or be near grandchildren. Perhaps an aging parent needs your help, you’re downsizing from house to apartment or you found a job in a new town. Whatever the reason, many people 50 and older need to establish new social ties for the first time in decades. The question is: How do you do it?…
…Irene S. Levine, Ph.D., a psychologist and author of “Best Friends Forever: Surviving a Breakup With Your Best Friend” and Thefriendshipblog.com, says the best way to find friends is to follow a passion – “and whether it’s golf, tennis, bridge or art, participate in your chosen activity regularly. That allows you to have contact with the same people over and over, and familiarity breeds friendship.” Nelson says it takes six to eight interactions between two people before they start to think of each other as friends.
Because it does take time, Levine says that in the early days after a move you should try to stay in contact with old friends so you don’t feel “overwhelmingly needy.” She also suggests finding out if those old friends have friends or relatives in your new location – meeting friends of friends is a great way to start making connections.
Category: IN THE MEDIA
Dear Friend,
Next week, i’m going to Sacramento. I have no any relationship or friend here, I wonder whether any body here can help me when I coming Sacramento.
Thanks and Best Regards,
J, Nguyen
Hi,
You might consider finding out about Meetup groups in the area after your move. The only way people can connect directly from this blog is by joining the group on Facebook. See:
https://www.thefriendshipblog.com/something-new-check-out-friendship-blog-connection-facebook/
Best, Irene
Hi, it is hard to meet new people in a new place. I’ll be your friend.
Denise