How do you make new friends?

I have the same problem.

I would find something you both enjoy and maybe do it together. Form a bond with them, create some kind of inside joke that you can share. THat usually takes someone to the next level of friendship. But you have to be willing to put the effort into the friendshsip that is the biggest thing. :) Hope that helps

Thank you. But here is another thing that happens to me. They say “I’m busy” all of the time. Does that mean their not wanting to be my friend or actually busy?

@Jessibug If you try two or three times and they say “I’m busy” and don’t offer another time or activity, it sounds like it’s probably a polite way of saying they are happy just being acquaintances.
It’s hard as an adult (versus a college kid or high schooler) to make friends, at least it is for me. If there’s someone you want to be friends with, ask if they want to get coffee, or a drink after work, or if there’s a movie or something you’ve been chatting about, ask if they want to see it with you. It’s hard, and it takes work and can be a little awkward, but it’s worth it.

—and 5 close friends sounds like a lot :)—

Is this a serious question? it’s not that hard…...if you think that person would make a good friend invite them to join you and your “good” friends one day if they accept get to know them better…and if they don’t go on to the next person….

It depends on what you mean by friend. For me, a friend is someone you can pretty much talk to about anything, and they can do that with you. Even more, they want to spend time with you. If you need it, they’ll take you in.

To find someone like that is almost as difficult as finding a spouse. You have to have an affinity for each other. It’s not something were you can audition them all by trying to do something with them. You are drawn to each other.

What you seem to be looking for is more like a different kind of friend. Someone you know, and might meet with occasionally, but not someone who is all that important in your life. I suppose you could audition them, but I still think you should try the ones you are actually drawn to.

Go out there and meet people – its really that simple. If you fear of rejection, know that if you’re going to a social place – everyone there is also as nervous as you.