Having friends in life is one of the most important things. You need that second family, that support system, those people you run to when everything goes wrong. Those people you share your happiness with. Those people that always have your back. But it is not always the easiest making friends, so here are some tips for making them.

1. Be friendly.

I know this seems obvious, but it is true. Whenever you are with a stranger around your age, introduce yourself. End that awkward elevator silence and say hello. Open the door for someone, help people with their homework, give directions. Reach out, because if you do not, you are losing all your chances. I know I have ended the elevator silence many times just by saying my name and asking how the other person was doing.

2. Be outgoing.

Be the one asking people to go out. Just say “Hey guys do you want to grab something to eat?” or “Let’s go do something.” Being outgoing is the key to getting more people together, resulting in meeting more friends. My friends and I have a group chat and I am always asking people to grab a meal together. Also, when I was younger, I was very close with the kids in my neighborhood. I remember my friend and I knocking on the kids’ doors and asking them to play manhunt or basketball with us. It was a great way to get people together and make more friends.

3. Do not be shy.

I know it is hard to get over your shyness, but do not be scared of people. You must overcome your fears if you want to go far in life. Although I have never been shy, talking to people in a big group can be tough. I have learned that it is easiest to talk to people one on one so it is not as daunting.

4. Do not stick to just one friend group.

You are limiting yourself and the people you are with may not end up being your friends in the long run. Right now I have a great group of friends, but I am trying to meet people outside my group in order to expand my horizon. I also like spending time with people with different personalities because it helps me to understand different types of people. This could help me later in life because understanding others is key to the work force.

5. Get involved.

Try to pick up a new hobby, sport, or join a club. Being involved is the easiest way to meet new friends. If you join an organization that you love you will automatically be with people you have something in common with. You are also guaranteed to be able to spend time with them, and you don’t even have to ask them to get together on your own. I have recently joined two dance companies and I love the people I am meeting there because we share a common interest. My group of friends are not dancers, so it is great to be able to share my passion with other people.

If you follow these instructions, I know you will make some amazing new friends.