| Ask any individual who's got them, | | | | other priorities, such as long days on |
| friends, whether you live in Austin, | | | | the job. Or maybe you've moved to a |
| Dallas, Houston or anywhere else in | | | | location and haven't met too many people |
| Texas, are good for you. They are good | | | | yet. |
| for health as well as for your life in | | | | Here are some ways to find new friends: |
| general. The proof? During down times, | | | | - If you have a pet, take it outside for |
| friends are a source of comfort and | | | | exercise. Many cities have popular dog |
| strength. So it's important to learn how | | | | parks. While you're there, have a |
| to find and nurture friendships as well | | | | conversation with those who stop to talk |
| as to be a good friend. | | | | or make pet play dates. |
| Friends have the shoulders you lean on. | | | | - Exercise yourself. Join a local gym, |
| They give you good advice. They comfort | | | | senior center or community fitness |
| you during hard times and share in your | | | | facility. Or start a walking clutch in |
| laughter in the good times. Friendships | | | | your neighborhood. |
| provide all these advantages and more. | | | | - Share a meal. Invite a new friend out |
| Friends can boost your self-esteem, | | | | for breakfast, lunch or dinner. |
| provide companionship and even help | | | | - Accept invitations. When you get an |
| improve your mental and physical health. | | | | invite to a party, dinner or social |
| It's not always easy to make friends, | | | | gathering, accept it. You can always |
| especially when your life is hectic with | | | | leave if you get too uncomfortable. |
| work demands, family time or school. But | | | | - Become a volunteer. Hospitals, places |
| friends are important for both men and | | | | of worship, museums, community centers |
| women. Friendships can help you get | | | | and other organizations need volunteers. |
| through a divorce, a job loss or family | | | | Working with people who share a mutual |
| death. Your friends may encourage you to | | | | interest can often spark a friendship or |
| change unhealthy lifestyle habits like | | | | two. |
| excessive smoking or drinking. Friends | | | | - Champion a cause. A group of people |
| are also there for you to celebrate the | | | | working toward a goal you believe in can |
| good times in your life -- like a new | | | | also create new friendships. |
| baby, a new job, a new house. | | | | - Get a hobby. Find individuals with |
| Some people benefit from large groups of | | | | similar interests, like auto racing, |
| friends. Others prefer a smaller circle | | | | music, gardening, books or crafts. |
| of friends and acquaintances. There are | | | | - Hit the books again. Take a course to |
| certain very close friends you rely on | | | | meet people with similar interests. |
| for personal conversations, and more | | | | - Sit out on your porch. Front porches |
| casual ones for movies or general | | | | have always been social centers for the |
| activities. | | | | neighborhood. Sit out front with a cup |
| Many adults find it hard to develop new | | | | of coffee or a good book. Make yourself |
| friendships or keep up existing ones. | | | | visible, open and friendly. |
| Friendships may take a back seat to your | | | | |