Whether you just moved to a different neighborhood, started a new job, or entered a new phase of your life, forming meaningful friendships as an adult can feel daunting.

As kids, friendships often formed organically through school, sports teams, or shared routines. But in adulthood, there are fewer built-in opportunities to forge new connections. Studies show that only 40% of men and 36% of women say they have five or more close friends –– and the number of friends people report having tends to decline with age.

The good news is that making friends as an adult isn’t impossible. Making small efforts to step outside of your comfort zone and reach out to others can lead to meaningful connections and new friendships over time. If you need some help getting started, try these Microsteps:

Ask a co-worker if they want to have lunch together.
Connecting with teammates and talking about your lives outside of work can be a great way to make friends and brighten your day.

Set a recurring calendar reminder to follow up with someone you enjoyed spending time with.
Life gets busy and it’s not always easy to remember to follow up. Setting a calendar reminder can help you keep up with friends and stay social.

Sign up for a class.
Whether it’s yoga, pottery or crafts, taking a class is a great way to meet other people with similar interests.

Ask a neighbor if they know of any community events or local clubs.
A monthly book club in your neighborhood, walking group or parks cleanup committee are all places to meet people in your area. You might be surprised how many local get-togethers fly under the radar unless you ask.

Post a comment on someone’s social media post instead of just clicking “like.”
Social media can spark real-life friendships when used thoughtfully. Just one message can encourage conversations that lead to friendship.

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