Title: Tips for Making Friends in High School
Hi everyone, I’m a 2010-born boy living in Finland. Recently, I’ve found myself in a tough situation—I’ve lost all my friends after they damaged my bike helmet and I asked for compensation. They ended up calling me a snitch for a few days, and then winter break came along. Since then, I’ve felt really isolated with no one to chat with, except for one person during break time. I’m feeling pretty lonely at school and I’m not sure how to move forward from here. I struggle with striking up conversations with new people. Any advice on how to make friends in high school would be greatly appreciated!
I’m really sorry to hear that you’re feeling this way. It can be tough to navigate friendships, especially after a situation like that. Here are some suggestions that might help you make new friends in high school:
Join Clubs or Activities: Look for clubs or extracurricular activities that interest you. This is a good way to meet people who share similar interests. Whether it’s sports, music, art, or a hobby, being part of a group can help break the ice.
Start Small: You don’t have to dive into deep conversations right away. Starting with simple greetings or casual conversations about classes or shared interests can help. You can ask someone about homework or their favorite subject.
Be Approachable: Try to maintain a friendly demeanor. Smile and make eye contact when you’re around others. Sometimes body language can invite others to talk to you.
Find Common Ground: If you notice someone wearing a shirt or carrying something related to a hobby or interest of yours, use that as a conversation starter. It can give you a topic to bond over.
Be Patient: Making friends takes time. Don’t get discouraged if things don’t happen right away. Keep putting yourself out there, and gradually, you’ll start to connect with others.
Reconnect with Old Friends: If possible, consider reaching out to some of your old friends. Sometimes a simple apology or conversation can help mend things.
Be Yourself: Authenticity attracts like-minded people. Don’t feel the need to change who you are to make friends. Being genuine can help you find friends who appreciate you for you.
Talk to Teachers or Counselors: If you’re really struggling, it can help to talk to a teacher or counselor. They can provide support and help you find opportunities to connect with others.
Remember, you’re not alone in this, and many others feel the same way. Take small steps, and over time, things can improve. Good luck!