The loneliness fix: I wanted to find new friends in my 30s – and it was easier than I imagined

The elusive quest for meaningful friendships in adulthood is often viewed as an insurmountable challenge. Research suggests that 69% of people agree that making close friends becomes more difficult with age, citing the dwindling availability of time and the inevitability of life's changes. However, what if this narrative isn't entirely accurate? One woman's journey to form new friendships in her 30s offers a refreshing alternative.

As she navigated the aftermath of old friendships evolving due to life-altering events, our protagonist realized that she needed to connect with people living similar lives to hers. She turned to Bumble BFF, the platonic counterpart to the popular dating app, but was initially hesitant due to its seemingly antithetical nature to her feminist values. Yet, after a few encounters, she discovered the platform's potential in forging meaningful relationships.

The turning point came when Rachel and Elvira, two strangers introduced through their mutual friend, became close friends. Their initial meeting at a cafe, facilitated by an algorithm-driven app, blossomed into a beautiful friendship that transcended their differences. They bonded over parallel childhoods spent at swimming practice and discovered an unexpected shared sense of humor.

Similarly, our protagonist met Abi, her flatmate found through SpareRoom, and the two quickly formed a connection that went beyond casual acquaintances. Their conversations turned hilarious, with exchanging embarrassing stories and laughter-filled nights becoming the norm.

Organic encounters also became possible when she met Loveday at an On the Beach festival in Brighton. The chance meeting on the roadside sparked a friendship that blossomed into weekend walks and deep conversations.

These new friendships weren't exclusive to online platforms or social events, but rather emerged from everyday interactions in co-working spaces, exercise classes, supper clubs, and local cafes. It was as if the world had become more interesting, with happiness acting as a feedback loop that drew people together.

The article highlights a counterintuitive reality: age doesn't have to hinder our ability to form meaningful connections. By acknowledging fear, anxiety, and sadness, we can begin to find new friendships in unexpected places.
 
I think it's so cool that someone found friends through apps and social events! I was like "how is this possible?" 😂 I mean, I've been trying to make friends for ages but its hard when you're always busy or just too nervous to put yourself out there 🤦‍♀️. But if the algorithm can bring people together from different walks of life, then maybe we should give it a shot? 💻💕
 
I totally feel you on this one 🤗! I've been there too, trying to make friends as an adult & it's like, the world is moving so fast & everyone's got their own stuff going on 😅. But what's crazy is how some people are actually finding friendships in the most random places – online, at work, even just walking down the street 🚶‍♀️.

I love how this woman found friends through Bumble BFF & SpareRoom, it's like technology isn't so bad after all 🤔. And what's beautiful is that these friendships weren't formed overnight, but rather took time & effort to build 💕. It just goes to show that making connections with people takes courage & a willingness to be vulnerable 😊.

I'm also loving the idea of finding happiness as a feedback loop that brings people together 🌈. It's like we need to focus on being our authentic selves & putting ourselves out there, rather than waiting for someone else to do it for us 💁‍♀️. So yeah, I think this article is totally on point & I'm here for more conversations about this topic! 💬
 
😂 I mean, 69% of people think making friends is hard after 30? That's like saying pizza isn't awesome anymore because you're older 🤣. But seriously, it's all about being open to new experiences and putting yourself out there. Those ladies on Bumble BFF are total bosses for giving it a try and finding friendships in the unlikeliest of places – online! 🚀 And can we talk about how awesome it is that they met people through mutual friends or shared interests? It's like the world is one big, happy playground 😊. Maybe we've just been too scared to join the fun... until now, that is! 💕
 
OMG u gotta see this 🤩! I was thinking same thing, ppl say 30s r bad for makin friends cuz ur busy or whatever, but girl says no way! She tried Bumble BFF and was all skeptical at first, but then met these amazing people who shared her vibes. It's not just online apps, she found friendships in co-working spaces, exercise classes, supper clubs... even random encounters at festivals 🎉! Life's got to be good for us to meet new ppl!
 
🤔 I think its actually kinda realistic for most of us that adult friendships are like hard to come by 🙅‍♀️ especially when you're not living in the same neighborhood as people who went to high school with you 🏫 or just randomly running into them at parties. I mean, have you ever tried to plan a get-together and 5+ people can't make it? 😂 its like we all kinda lose track of each other as adults 👥

And yeah, apps are great for meeting new people but I think the more interesting part is when those online friendships just kinda... happen 🤝 in real life. Like, you're at a coworking space and someone sits next to you on public transportation, or you both show up to that supper club you've been wanting to try, and BAM! Instant BFF 💕
 
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