Page 10 - Journeys B1 (Student Book)

1 Being Socıable

“I’ve just moved to a new city, and I don’t know
anyone. I’m quite shy, and I’m really worried about
making friends. In my last school I had two best
friends. We did everything together. At my new
school all my classmates already know each other,
and I feel left out. Can you help me?”

Last week I got this message from a reader. I don’t know about you, but I’ve certainly been in this
position before, and it’s definitely not easy. It can feel like your new classmates don’t need any new
friends, so starting a conversation can be really scary. Today I’m going to share my top advice on how
to make new friends.
1.

Remember you’re not the only one feeling shy. Perhaps your new classmates want to show support
and welcome you to the group but don’t know how. Smile and communicate with confidence about
everyday topics. Why not ask for tips on the best places to hang out at the weekend, or where to get
a great coffee. That will give you an opportunity to ask them if they’d like to get a coffee with you
sometime.

2.
Perhaps you are great at telling jokes. Or you can always keep a secret. Your friends should love you
for who you are, so you should never try to change yourself to make people like you. Show people your
strengths and don’t pretend to be someone you are not. That way your new classmates will trust you.
3.
Don’t make the mistake of making it all about you! Yes, you want to show your best side, but it’s also
really important to ask plenty of questions and show interest in your new classmates, too.
4.
Don’t compare every new person you meet to your old friends. Your new friends will never be the same
as the old ones, but they can be just as good. What’s more, you might learn from them. Perhaps you can
start a new sport, or take up a new hobby with them.
5.
Finally, don’t be jealous of your new classmates. It will take time, but soon you will have a close circle of
friends, too.
I hope this advice is useful to you. If you have any good ideas about how to make friends, write them in
the comments section below.

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