Making friends doesn't come naturally to everyone, but these tips might help!
1. 'Hi' goes a long way
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Imagine a closed door and ‘Hi’ being the key to opening that door. Sometimes a simple word such as saying ‘Hi’ to someone can go a long way. Take that step and you’ll be surprised by the outcome.
2. What outcome?
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When you don’t expect anything in return you won’t be disappointed by the outcome. Sometimes the picture we have in our minds of what might happen isn’t bad as the reality. You have nothing to lose so keep a positive mind set and just go for it.
3. Find their passion
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Start a conversation with a person – if you see their eyes light up about a specific topic, ask more questions around it.
4. Laughter
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They say ‘laughter is the best medicine’ – although you don’t need medicine to make friends. Laughing makes the conversation cheerful – it’s infectious – and nothing attracts people more, than people who are happy.
5. Rejection - sad but not your fault
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Sometimes people might not want to be your friend – it’s sad, but sad for them, because we can be friends with all sorts of people we meet. All you can do is offer friendship. If it’s not taken, that’s not your fault. You cannot make other people be friendly. Find others who are more open and mature.
how to get help
If you have any more questions on this area or would like to speak to somebody about this topic, have a look at the links or search for your local services in the blue box below. Alternatively you can always contact your public health nurse.
Find help in your local area
Find out what services are available to you in your area. Remember your school nurse is always there to give you confidential help and support.