As a retiree, you get to look forward to trying new things. New adventures await you, and it’s now possible to do activities you were unable to do while working. That’s exciting, and you’re eager to have some fun!
But perhaps you’ve recently moved to a new area and don’t have a lot of friends.
As a retired person, it’d be ideal to have some buddies you can call on to grab some lunch.
If you’re wondering how to meet new people as a newly retired person, here are five unexpected ways.
1. Create a Group
A lot of retirees join clubs and social groups, but what about starting your own group?
If you want to start a reading group, see if you can leave a flyer at Starbucks or list it online.
As you hear back from people, see if you can generate enough interest to start a group.
Once you get the group going, you’ll be able to connect with new people. Find out if there are other activities they’d like to do with you, such as fishing, tennis, or biking.
Pretty soon, you’ll have a few great friends who’ll want to try out new restaurants and more with you!
2. Mentor Someone in Your Industry
You’re no longer working, but your skills and training can still come in handy.
If you worked in graphic design, you could mentor an intern or someone who recently graduated. Show them your tricks of the trade so they can perform better at their job!
Mentoring someone in your industry helps them strengthen their skills, and it makes you feel good that you’re able to assist someone.
Encouraging someone and showing them how to grow in their career will be fulfilling. Plus, you’ll likely become friends!
Stay in touch so they can keep you updated on their new position and call you up to get some lunch.
It’ll be great to have a new friend and share whatever knowledge you have to offer.
3. Go to the Dog Park
If you have a furry companion, he needs to get some exercise. Otherwise, he may go stir crazy and tear up some toilet paper!
To help him release some of that energy, take him to the dog park.
There, you’ll meet other fellow dog owners. You can chit chat about your fur babies and have fun watching your dogs play in the park.
As you communicate, you may find some common interests. Who knows — you could make a new friend and meet up more often!
4. Participate in Athletic Activities
Are you doing some athletic activities? If not, find a place in your area where you can. This is a great way to get to know other people.
For example, you could make a habit of attending outdoor yoga classes in the park. Not only will you become a pro of the Lotus position, but you may also meet new people after class. As you get into a discussion about class, you may find you share common interests.
If they want to do some other activities besides yoga, let them know you’re available. Pretty soon, you’ll be going on some fun walks at nearby walking trails. There’s a lot to explore in your area, so let them know you’re up for new adventures.
It’ll be fun checking out new places with your new buddies!
5. Volunteer Your Time
Volunteering is a fantastic way to do something you love while being social.
As a retiree, you may miss working. Volunteering can fill in the gap and give you something to do.
And, of course, you’ll get to know other people who volunteer as well.
So, get out there and volunteer your time. You’ll likely find people who share the same passions!
There’s no question that volunteering for an animal shelter or another organization will do you a world of good.
6. Meet New People Through Your Kids
Another unexpected way to meet new folks is through your kids or grandchildren. They may have some older friends of their own through work or athletic activities.
If they have a get-together with co-workers, they may invite you too.
Let them know that you’d like to meet new people. That way, they can be thinking of people you would click with and share common interests.
7. Get to Know People in Your Senior Living Community
If you live in a senior living community, you’ll make acquaintances with tons of people.
Walk around your community and shoot the breeze with fellow residents. In time, you’ll come to recognize one another and stop by and catch up.
The conversation may segue into other topics. If that’s the case, find out if they’d be open to trying a new restaurant with you or doing another activity.
It doesn’t hurt to ask and find out what they like to do. They could be looking for a new friend and may be eager to go out and try new things — just like you!
Conclusion
You now have a lot of ideas on how to meet new people.
If you’re shy, it may take some effort to get out and try new activities. That’s okay because there’s plenty of other introverted people who are in the same boat.
So, go out on a limb and introduce yourself. Even if you don’t become steadfast friends, at least you made an effort!
Keep trying new activities (or creating a group of your own). You’re bound to meet new people and make new friends.
Author Bio:
Leon Grundstein has more than 28 years of experience in real estate development, with over two decades of experience in the retirement industry. He founded Granite Falls with a game-changing business model to promote a healthy and robust retirement lifestyle for older adults.
