1. Make yourself available. If you want to make friends, you first need to put yourself out there somehow in order to meet people. If you just sit alone, friends might come to you, but that's not likely because they might think you want to stay alone. For example, if you're still in school, sit somewhere with other people. It doesn't have to be a crowded table, but try to choose one with at least 2 other people.
Remember, friends rarely come knocking on your door while you sit at home playing on your laptop.
If you see opportunities to get out there and meet people, take them. For example, try going to social functions at school or work. If someone invites you to a party, go for it!
2. Join an organization or club to meet new people. This is a great way to find other people who have common interests. You don't necessarily need to have a lot of common interests with people in order to make friends with them. Some of the most rewarding friendships are between 2 people who don't have much in common at all. However, if you like a specific topic, try searching for a location where you can meet people who share that interest.
For example, you could join the science club at school, the marching band, a knitting group, or any other shared-interest group.
If you play instruments or sing, try joining a band or choir. Joining a sports team is a good option if you're the athletic type or just want to try something challenging and new!
If you're religious, a church, Mosque, temple, or other house of worship is a great place to start since you and the other people there will at least have a religious faith in common.
3.
Volunteer for a cause you care about. Volunteering is also a good way for people of all ages to meet others. By working together, you build bonds with people. You may also meet others who have a passion for changing things the way you do (a common cause).
For example, you might donate your time at a local nursing home, hospital, an animal shelter, or non-profit organization.
Do an online search or call charitable organizations in your area to find volunteering opportunities near you.
4.
Try to connect with people you already know. Chances are, you already know a few people who could potentially become good friends. Consider trying to get to know your co-workers, classmates, or even people in your social media network.
For example, if you're a parent, you might reach out to the other parents of your child's classmates. Setting up a play-date for the kids can be a good opportunity for you to get to know some new adult friends.