I need advice!!

So I just moved to Tennessee from Arizona with my parents and I need friends!!! I’m 19, i’m not in school, I do work but not with people my age. I’m very introverted so i’m having a hard time making friends. All the friends I have back home are from school or my old job but other than that I have no clue how to meet people. Please let me know anything that has helped or any advice you can give!

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Tennessee
2024/4/12 Edited to

... Read moreHey there! Reading your post really resonated with me. Moving to a new city, especially when you're 19 and an introvert, can feel incredibly isolating. I remember going through something similar when I first moved for college, and even though I was in school, finding genuine connections felt impossible. It's totally okay to feel that way, and asking for help is the first brave step! Since you mentioned looking for advice, let's talk about some of the best *apps for introverts to make friends*. These can be a game-changer because they remove some of the initial social pressure. Think about what you enjoy: Meetup: This isn't just for networking! I've found so many local groups for specific interests – book clubs, hiking, board games, even quiet coffee and chat groups. You can browse events and join without the pressure of a one-on-one interaction right away. It’s perfect for introverts because the focus is on a shared activity, not just small talk. Bumble BFF: Yes, Bumble isn't just for dating! Their 'BFF' mode is specifically designed for platonic friendships. You can create a profile highlighting your interests, and then swipe through potential friends. It feels a bit like dating, but for friendship, and it's a great way to find people with similar vibes nearby. I've had some surprisingly good experiences here! Nextdoor: While primarily for community news, I've seen people post about starting local clubs or looking for walking buddies. It's more about connecting with your immediate neighborhood, which can sometimes lead to unexpected friendships with people literally next door. Discord: If you're into gaming, specific hobbies, or just niche topics, Discord servers are fantastic. You can join communities related to your interests and slowly get to know people through shared discussions. It's a lower-pressure environment to interact at your own pace. Beyond apps, let's tackle how to make friends in a new city as an introvert when you're not in school. It requires a bit of intentionality, but it's totally doable! Volunteer: Find a cause you care about. Volunteering is a fantastic way to meet like-minded people. The focus is on the task, not awkward conversation, which is ideal for introverts. Plus, you're doing good! Join a Class or Workshop: Is there a skill you've always wanted to learn? Pottery, cooking, yoga, a language? These classes provide a regular, structured environment to see the same people week after week. Friendships often blossom naturally over shared learning experiences. Frequent Local Spots: Find a coffee shop, bookstore, or park you love and become a regular. The staff might start recognizing you, and you might strike up casual conversations with other regulars. It's low-pressure and organic. Embrace Your Hobbies: If you love reading, visit a local library or independent bookstore. If you like hiking, explore local trails. Doing things you genuinely enjoy opens doors to meeting others who share those passions. Try Online Communities (Beyond Apps): Reddit has subreddits for almost every city. Search for 'r/Tennessee' or 'r/[yourcity]' to see if there are local meetups or discussions where you can connect. Be Patient and Kind to Yourself: Making friends takes time, especially for introverts who often prefer deeper connections over many acquaintances. Don't get discouraged if it doesn't happen overnight. Celebrate small wins, like a good conversation with a new person. Remember that 'HELP! I NEED ADVICE' feeling? It's completely valid, and there are so many ways to navigate making friends in a new place. You've got this, and I hope these suggestions give you a great starting point. Keep us updated on your journey!

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I think the best way to make friends is to do things you love doing in group settings, like classes (yoga classes, Pilates, etc), check out local cafes, join local facebook groups! I just recently moved to a small town and from doing these things I already am familiar with a few different people 🤍

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