3 ways to make more friends

According to sociologists Freeman and Thompson, published in 1989, the number of social connections a person has on average ranges from 250 to 5,500 contacts. The researchers also looked at friendships. They took the number of New Year cards that a person sends on average as the equivalent of proximity. As a result, the average number of friends was Social Network Size In Humans 121.

But no matter how extensive your connections are, there are usually quite a few close people. According to the 2008 Segregation in social networks based on acquaintanceship and trust, the average American trusts only 10-20 people. And this number is gradually decreasing. For example, over the period from 1985 to 2004, respondents on average decreased Social Isolation in America: Changes in Core Discussion Networks Over Two Decades in the number of soulmates. Instead of three, there are only two left.

And this is not just a sad fact. Increased isolation has serious consequences. Social Relationships and Mortality Risk: A Meta-analytic Review has proven that people with stronger social connections live longer. But don't be discouraged if your life is lacking in communication right now. Researchers have a lot to offer.

Do not neglect distant acquaintances

Even hanging out with people with whom you don't have strong social bonds is significantly affected by Social Interactions and Well-Being: The Surprising Power of Weak Ties. emotional well-being. It may just take time to build a strong friendship with them.

According to a recent study, How many hours does it take to make a friend?, it takes 50 hours of communication to go from simple acquaintance to friendship. And another 40 hours to become true friends. All in all - 200 hours to get close.

Rebuild old connections

Think of the people with whom you used to have a relationship of trust. It will be easier to establish communication with them. And the fact that you have not seen for a while will give Dormant Ties: The Value Of Reconnecting new food for conversation.

Take a chance and share something with someone you don't know well

Try to open up to unfamiliar people. By telling something personal, we have Self-disclosure and liking: a meta-analytic review to others. In addition, we tend to have more sympathy for those who have already been admitted into the soul.

Everyone needs communication and closeness. It is quite possible that acquaintances will gladly meet you halfway. So close this article and try to befriend someone around you.