It’s no secret, after the age of 25 in women, and 32 in men, your social circle shrinks. Both men and women hit a wall where having loads of friends just doesn’t matter anymore. Suddenly, a careful selection happens where only those deemed valuable are kept, and everyone else is lost in the wind. This is in large part because of two reasons: 1) people in this age range are looking to settle down, and want to spend more time with their partners 2) life gets hectic at this stage, with work and career building, relationships, wedding planning, moving, raising children, balancing finances, etc. So, how can you keep making friends at this age without losing everyone at such a rapid pace? Is it a lost cause? Not at all! Here are some tips to help you along your way.

#1 Be Realistic About Your Time

Honestly, if you work 9-5, M-F, you don’t have plenty of time to engage new friends. You probably need time to cook, spend time with your partner and children, keep connections strong with family and established friends, get some alone time in, and sleep. It can get pretty crazy! So be realistic about how much time you have to dedicate to new friendships, so you know what to aim for.

#2 Join A Class

Part of the reason why teenagers and children have an easy time making friends is because they spend time together in class. If you’re an adult, chances are you haven’t seen the inside of a classroom in years!

The good news is that there are plenty of small night classes for adults that you could take to not only expand your knowledge, and potentially get a raise at work, but also, could expose you to other adults.

#3 Share A Hobby

Want to learn how to make Tarte Tatin? Don’t just look up a YouTube video, go take a baking class! Several culinary shops host cooking classes on the weekends, and you can totally take one! If you do, not only will you be able to learn something new, you’ll also rub elbows with other like-minded individuals you can befriend.

#4 Host A Party

More like a get-together, as adults put it. Make sure to invite your current friends and their siblings, if they have any, but also, tell everyone to bring a friend or four! Using your small circle to get to know other people is helpful, but also wise. These people have passed a barrier set by a close friend of yours. Maybe you have something in common?

#5 Be Social With the Neighbors

Do you know your neighbors’ names? If you don’t, try going out for more walks or jogs, take your dog to the neighborhood doggy park, or show up for any community activities. You never know who you might meet!