Some people get lucky and meet their friend groups in elementary or middle school; others who don’t get the chance have to wait from the sidelines watching the people who’ve grown together stay together. This is part of teenage life: people come and go, and the ones who stay are the ones who care. However, all of this seems intimidating for someone who doesn’t know where to start.
So, here are some tips from our Huskies on how to make and maintain real friends.
Look Around!
First off, you must know once you’re in school, it isn’t hard at all. Keep an eye out for events, clubs, electives – and most importantly – lunch! Many big friend groups are just smaller networks of people. So many groups of friends meet through clubs and electives, which is just a matter of getting involved and getting out there!
What Do We Do Now?
Outside of Edmond North, there is a broader range of things to do; you can even make a friend by walking through Target or joining the gym. It’s just a matter of finding, or being, in the right place! Here are the top five activities that fellow students at North enjoy with their friends:
- Baking
- Thrifting
- Going to the park or spending time outside
- Restaurants/Eating out
- Hanging out at home/playing games together
Be a Ray of Sunshine
Laughing, smiling, and having a good time is what we all want more of: friends who make you feel good about life are in high demand. When you are in a tough class, it is so much easier to endure with someone who can make you enjoy the little things. A good friend is one you can leave feeling better about yourself and happier about life. With positive energy, you’ll attract lots of friends.
(Gitashri Gopalakrishnan)
Keep It Real
Be yourself and be honest. The more transparent you are, the more people are willing to trust you. This gives you more opportunity to also make friends with people who are real and honest. Long-life friends are earned this way. Honesty is truly the best policy.
An Open Mind Will Never Leave You Blind
Having an open mind is acknowledging your bias and choosing to not judge others unfairly. This helps you with not only your knowledge of the world but makes you more empathetic to others, creating more connections. Making that open and non-judgemental space to communicate will make your bonds stronger!
Treat Others How You Would Like to Be Treated
As simple as it sounds, this is a key part of connection. You need to treat others with respect and kindness, or else no one will want to be friends with you. Being respectful doesn’t take much, but it can impact how you make friends and who you become friends with.
According to Sarah Liepins , Kolton Danker and Syre Carabajal(Gitashri Gopalakrishnan)
Conversation Is Connection
Everyone was a stranger to one another at one point, and it’s all about how you approach people! Of course it feels weird, on both sides, to walk up to someone without knowing what to say. Instead, have some conversation topics ready.
For example, if you love music, your go-to questions may be about people’s favorite bands, songs, eras of music, etc. When having these conversations, don’t be afraid to ask questions. You should show your interest in what your friends are doing. If they say their favorite artist is Taylor Swift, then you can talk about the Kanye controversy.
If you’re unsure or nervous on how to approach people, then you could always start with a compliment. A simple, “Your outfit is so cool; where’d you get your shirt?”, can spark a conversation.
(Gitashri Gopalakrishnan)
Wise Words From Mr. Butler
Trust to be honest is something Mr.Butler truly believes in. “You have to know you can rely on the person no matter what,” he states, and what he says is true. Who you make friends with matters and while making friends you should be that person as well. Be that person that people rely on, and you will gain more friends.
Wrap It Up!
It’s nice to know everyone starts somewhere, and that place is different for every person. Remember: no matter who you’re looking for, there is something to appreciate in everyone. Look for the best in everyone and follow our tips – they will without a doubt help you win a friend!
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