What are some ways for a middle aged woman to make new friends?

Question

I have been divorced for almost a year. We moved to a new town not long before we split up. I really don't have friends.

It is not realistic to make friends at work - I am the boss, and most of my employees are 10-20 years younger than I am.

I am not a church-goer.

I need suggestions on ways to get out and make new friends.

Answer 1

Bless you.

My answer will be the same as the others but condensed.

Do what you love to do. Finding people at work is simply clumsy. If you like to do something, find a group that does just that thing. This way you will have common ground.

Go gentle, that one year after a divorce is barely long enough to properly mourn a dead relationship.

Too bad you don't live in my town, I'd love a friend! Stay cheerful and just do what you enjoy to do - the rest will fall into place.

Answer 2

One of the best ways to meet new friends is to join organizations that interest you. Other people there already have the same interests.

My aunt told me once that wherever you meet a person is where they will always be. In other words, if you meet someone in a nightclub, that is where their interests lie.

Also, joining groups that help other people is one way to focus less on your needs while attending to the needs of others. It's a feel good move.

What about your neighbors? Striking up conversations will reveal what type of relationship is possible.

Also, colleges have great travel options.

Friends are found all over. Pretty soon, you will find yourself so socially rounded you will wonder what the problem was in the first place.

Answer 3

I don't have any answers...I'm looking for friends too. I'm 38 and my best friend from HighSchool and I communicate almost each and every day, but I'm so busy with my kids that it is hard to find friends in my current present life -- my best HS friend lives 10+ hours drive away...good thing for IM and email and phones, or I'd be really lonely! I'm interested in what you find out though....e.g., I'm wondering how the "dating service" comment applies b/c I thought those were just for finding romantic relationships -- and I already have a hubby that I'm totally in love with. For some reason though, that love doesnt completely fill my need for some female friends.... Anyway, best wishes....Lari

Answer 4

Sooner,
I can relate to your dilemma. I just moved 2,000 miles from the place I spent my first 54 years. I didn't expect myself to find new lifelong friends right away. So here are some of the things that are working for me:
I take walks around my new neighborhood and get to know my neighbors.
I have joined the neighborhood committee
I found some clubs I'm interested in to attend
I volunteer for charitable organizations
I joined the organization for my political affiliation
These aren't all things I would have done at "home," but here they get me out, introduce me to new people, and help me make networks of friends to do other things with.
My mom, who moved with me, is a church goer, so she attends 2 to 3 events a week with her church, plays cards with a seniors group, and found a group to go to lunch with once a month. She is having lots of fun, and I'm getting to know many people.
Another thing you can do is go to cultural events. I hope you find lots of new friends and have fun doing it.

Answer 5

Volunteer
Walk in the Park
Go to the Library
Go to bars
Join a parent group
Go to support groups
Take cooking classes at retail stores, like Chef Central
Do arts and crafts at Micheals or Rag Shop
Change your mind about church and volunteer there
Join a yahoo group
Get out there!

Answer 6

Do u hev someone in your office who u can talk with alone? like a utility?they usually knows about everthing ,or anyone in the office..U dont hev to start puffing some questions,u can start with asking him/her some personal favors..like getting a coffe,then commenting or thanking him for that,2 or 3 x of that wud do.Then u can ask him who among ur co-workers is a hard worker..or the most freindly..or whom shud u watch for..in short..B.I them,check on them...then slowly u ticked on their strengths...eventually it will follow...just be sincere...coz they will feel it if ur faking...goodluck and godbless

Answer 7

Try taking classes. Check the local parks & recreation centers. That a great way to meet people who have something in common.

Or you could try Yahoo groups, MeetUp.com or sites like that.

Good luck!

Answer 8

Hmm...that's a tough one. Is this "town" a good-sized city? Perhaps a dating or matching service. I feel your pain. It gets tough when you get older, especially if you're not into religion. That's one thing religious people have. They have an excuse to congregate.

Answer 9

maybe go to some clubs. find out the things that are going on in your town that you can do..volunteer at a animal shelter or somewhere you will meet people there also. good luck

Answer 10

Most people that are middle aged are already stuck in their ways especially women, try to get aquainted with your neighbors, throw a get together.