18 ways to grow your social network during life transitions.
Relocations, new babies, and other life transitions can throw a wrench in your social network, leaving you feeling disconnected and lonely. Use the adjustment period as a chance to make a fresh start by building connections that support your personal health and the well-being of your family.
Here are 18 ways to rev up your social engine for increased happiness.
- Join a mom’s group. Your sense of self-worth and belonging increases when you’re part of a group of supportive friends.
- Call an old friend. Reconnecting helps you rebuild your confidence as you meet new moms.
- Email a mom you’d like to know better. Arrange a time to meet for a play date at the park.
- Send a Facebook friend request to a mom you’ve met recently. Initiating friendships boosts your self-confidence.
- Volunteer. Your efforts will positively impact others, you’ll meet new people, and you’ll derive satisfaction and joy from helping out.
- Strike up a conversation. Kids are great icebreakers. Even a casual conversation with another mom can cheer you up.
- Click into an online moms group. Reaching out to other moms online who can relate can help you feel less isolated.
- Coordinate a meet and greet. Got school-aged kids? Invite other classroom moms to a “seasoned moms” lunch to build a sense of community.
- Sign up for a yoga, zumba or jazzercise class. Build friendships while you’re boosting endorphins.
- Spring for a Girls’ Night Out! You may feel a little tired the next day, but recalling all the laughs and stimulating conversation will put a skip in your step.
- Participate in parent council. It’s a great way to become familiar with your child’s school, get involved in his/her education and meet other parents.
- Dine and play. Invite other moms for a two-hour afternoon play date and potluck dinner. Dinner done, kids sleep well, and you’re rewarded with a quiet evening ahead!
- Start a walking group. Walking and talking for an hour offers both great exercise and free therapy!
- Coordinate a group outing to the zoo or a children’s museum. Both you and your kids will appreciate the social interaction, exercise and education these venues offer.
- Check out the library. Libraries often feature interesting presenters, book clubs and other activities. Attend a few discussions to meet others with shared interests.
- Organize a game night or book club with your friends. You and your friends will love the excuse for a lively evening escape!
- Throw a neighborhood backyard BBQ. Provide outdoor games like badminton, horseshoes, volleyball, chalk, bubbles and hula hoops for the kids to play together.
- Support a friend who sells make-up, jewelry, clothing, cookware or candles by accepting an invitation to one of the parties. Go with a budget and enjoy hanging out with other women.
