Simplicity of friendship in childhood
It is very easy to make friends in childhood. Sitting with someone in school, going to tuition, playing or sharing small talk starts a friendship. At that time there is neither a need to think much nor any hesitation in coming close to someone. But as age increases, it becomes difficult to connect with new people and make friends.
Why does it become difficult to make friends as we grow up?
According to Mental Health Educator and Certified NLP Coach Devina Kaur, when we move from school-college to job and responsibilities, the way of making friends changes. In childhood, we used to meet again and again in the same classes, tuitions or sports activities, which deepened our friendship.
However, meeting new people and striking up conversations in adult life can be more challenging.
1. Lack of time due to responsibilities
As we grow up, the burden of job, family and financial responsibilities increases. Most of the day is spent in work, and in free time people like to relax or do their personal work.
This reduces opportunities to meet new people and spend time with old friends, which can make it difficult to maintain friendships.
2. Fear of rejection
As we age, people become more cautious about forming new relationships. Many questions arise in the mind – Does the other person not want to talk? Will I seem overly excited? Would he want to consider me a friend?
Because of this hesitation many people shy away from starting a conversation. Sometimes both wait for each other to take the initiative and the opportunity for friendship is lost.
3. Change in life
Changes like a new job, changing city, marriage or becoming a parent affect the routine of life. You may gradually reduce the number of friends you used to meet daily.
However, this does not mean that the friendship is over. Many times people get busy with their responsibilities and are unable to find time to maintain contact.
4. Time to trust
Friendship is natural in childhood, but as people grow up, they start understanding relationships based on their experiences. It may take time to trust someone and share feelings.
Therefore, the process of forming friendships in adult life may be slow. But strong relationships can be built through dialogue and mutual understanding.
5. Experience of loneliness
Many times, despite living and interacting with people, a person may feel lonely. The reason for this may be that he does not have anyone with whom he can share his feelings.
So understanding your feelings, talking to someone you trust, and participating in social activities can be helpful.
How to make new friends as you grow up?
- Start with small talk: Have casual conversations with people you meet at work, in the neighborhood, or at activities you enjoy.
- Take initiative yourself: Inviting someone for tea or coffee can be the beginning of a friendship.
- Contact old friends: A short message or phone call can reinvigorate an old friendship.
- Engage in activities you love: Joining sports, books, workshops, or other groups can help you meet people with similar interests.
- Give time to relationships: Not every meeting turns into a deep friendship. Relationships gradually become stronger through regular communication and mutual trust.
conclusion
Making friends as you grow up can be difficult, but it's not impossible. Amidst responsibilities and changing circumstances, it is essential to find time for relationships and initiate conversations. You don't need a lot of people to start a friendship—sometimes just one friend you can talk to is enough.