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