The friend zone: How to navigate finding friends as an adult

This past summer, a survey found that Ireland has the highest levels of loneliness in Europe. A staggering revelation, but is it really all that surprising? Between young people emigrating in their droves, more people working from home than ever before, despite our seemingly constant digital interactions, we are less connected than ever.

In the same way that a romantic relationship ebbs and flows, platonic love can fluctuate and take new shapes as the years go by, and there are so many external factors that can shift the dynamic. Proximity, differing stages of life, changing priorities. And with all the general perils, commitments and responsibilities that are part and parcel of growing up and being an adult, finding and maintaining your tribe can prove quite difficult.

The concept of making friends is a funny one, and one that seems like it ought to be confined to our youth. It was something that seemed to happen through exposure: who you sit next to in school, who’s on the same sports team, who you strike up a conversation with between lectures. At school and university it was easy, but how the hell do you go about it when you’re an adult?

And where? Should we strike up a conversation in the fruit and veg aisle? Saunter up to someone in the gym? How do you graduate work pals from office drinks to Saturday lunches? Every encounter can seem insincere.

As well as the groups mentioned above, here are a few more places to pick up some pals…

Show Up Dublin

Inspired by sister groups in Barcelona, New York, Australia and Tel Aviv, Show Up Dublin is a conscious community designed to connect people through free outdoor activities like sunrise breathing sessions, sea swims, meditations and gatherings. Join their Breath, Dip and Sip on Wednesday mornings in Dun Laoghaire.

Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann

Played an instrument as a child but didn’t keep it up? If you’re musically inclined, try Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann, Ireland’s traditional music association. It offers free classes, practice areas and group sessions across the country, including five dedicated resource centres. They take on musicians of all ages and skill levels.

HerSport

HerSport is a great resource for promoting women in sport, whether that be at elite level or taster sessions for complete novices. Keep an eye on their website for upcoming workshops and events, or join as an MVP and get early access.

IMAGE Winter 2023

This article originally appeared in the winter 2023 issue of IMAGE Magazine.

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