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