September is self-improvement month, which makes this month the perfect time to improve all areas of your life. We can’t all be social butterflies, but there are a few tricks on how to improve your social life.
How to Instantly Improve Your Social Life
Reach out and Make Plans.
Send a text, email or give a friend a call. Make plans to meet up for lunch or coffee to catch up. Consider planning a quick out-of-town getaway and enjoy some quality time together. But don’t be afraid to take the first step.
Expand Your Friend Circle.
Invite a coworker out to lunch or dinner. Check out a delicious local restaurant and get to know someone beyond the office walls.
Go Somewhere Alone.
This can be scary at first but heading out into the world solo opens you up to meeting new people wherever you go. If being alone in public makes you uncomfortable, start off small. Grab breakfast or lunch somewhere you’ve always wanted to try. Once you feel comfortable, grab dinner alone or a cocktail in the latest trendy hotspot. There’s bound to be tons of people there, and it will be pretty effortless to strike up a conversation.
Don’t Be a Flaky Friend.
Say yes to plans and try not to break them (unless business or family priorities pop up). Being a friend who shows up is essential and will lead to more invitations in the future.
Network.
Networking is a productive way to socialize while building your business or professional network. Sign up to Meetup, join a few relevant groups and get yourself out there. Most people network alone, so you’ll meet lots of likeminded people.
Get Professional Help If You Have Social Anxiety.
Some personalities can’t help having a lack of a social life, no matter how much they may want one. See a licensed therapist to help you work through any social anxiety issues you may have. Then go out there and conquer the world!
Be a Fun and Respectful Guest.
If you are invited to someone’s house or party, make sure you have fun and mingle with others but also be respectful of the home, guests, and host. Offer to help plan and bring a gift for the host; it’s always gratefully received.
How have you improved your social life? Tweet your tips to me @lorenridinger.
