It is never too late to make new close friends, regardless of your age or life circumstances. Many people continue to form meaningful friendships well into their adult years, and your mid-forties is no exception. Here are some things to consider:
Shared Interests: Look for opportunities to meet people who share your interests. Whether it's through hobbies, classes, volunteering, or online communities, shared interests can be a great foundation for forming friendships.
Parenting Groups: As a mom of three kids, you might consider joining local parenting groups or online forums where you can connect with other parents facing similar challenges and experiences.
Be Proactive: Making friends often requires taking the initiative. Don't be afraid to reach out to others, initiate conversations, or suggest activities.
Be Yourself: Authenticity is crucial in forming lasting friendships. Be genuine and let people get to know the real you.
Quality over Quantity: Focus on building a few meaningful connections rather than trying to have many superficial friendships.
Online Communities: With the internet, there are plenty of online platforms and social networks where you can find like-minded individuals and potentially form virtual friendships.
Patience and Persistence: Forming close friendships takes time and effort. Be patient and persistent, and don't be discouraged by setbacks or rejections.
Join Local Events: Attend local events or gatherings where you can interact with people in your community and create opportunities to connect.
Remember that building friendships is a gradual process, and not every interaction will lead to a close friendship. Be open to meeting new people, and don't be too hard on yourself if it takes time. Building connections can take time and effort, but the rewards of having close and supportive friends are worth it.
Additionally, if you find that you're struggling with making and keeping friends consistently, you may consider seeking support from a therapist or counselor who can help you explore any underlying reasons for this struggle and offer guidance on building meaningful relationships.