Whether it’s for a job or simply for a change, moving to a new city can be full of many emotions. A move can be rewarding, exciting, scary, stressful and, yes, a little lonely.
It’s not always easy to make new friends, and it can be just as difficult in a small friendly city like Estevan, Saskatchewan as a large, bustling place like Toronto, Ontario. But there are some things you can do to increase your chances of making new friends. So, we’ve come up with a list of advice.
Get lost
One great way to meet people and learn the layout of your new city is to set out on an adventure with no destination in mind. Drive, walk or bike around and see where the wind blows. You never know who you’ll meet along the way when you have to stop for directions, Or if you come upon an interesting place, ask a passerby what they know about it. Every new friendship starts with a simple conversation.
Dine out
Dining alone opens all kinds of doors. If the restaurant has a bar, sit at it so that you can have a chat with the bartender. Servers are also great people to have a conversation with, and are usually friendly and helpful with advice about the town.
Related Article: Top 5 Restaurants in Estevan, Saskatchewan
Meet up
The internet is a great first step in making new friends. There are many apps and websites that people use to connect. You can find people through similar common interests or some dating apps have “friend only” options. If you find someone you think you might have something in common with, make plans and follow through, even if you’re nervous.
Get involved
Find groups and activities that speak to your passions. Cooking, running, knitting, photography, painting, swimming and so on, virtually any activity has some people who love it and do it regularly. It could be through a community centre, a church, a gym or even a coffee shop, there are plenty of gatherings in towns large and small. And if you can’t find a group, start one!
Check it out
See what the town or city has to offer by way of cultural events. It could be a play, live music, a farmer’s market or a street fair, but these kinds of things tend to draw large crowds. You’ll find with plenty of opportunities to meet people.
Reach out
Perhaps you know someone who has lived in your new city or town before. Don’t be shy to ask them for recommendations or introductions. It’s always nice to have a way in or to have someone vouch for new people. It takes away some of the work and makes those initial jittery steps a lot easier.
Say yes
It can be nerve-racking being the new kid on the block and it takes courage just to show up. But if there is an opportunity to go out and meet people or you have an invitation to something, just say yes. Remember: you aren’t going to meet people cooped up in your home.
Be patient
It really can take a while to connect with new people and you might feel like giving up. But don’t! You will find friends soon enough, as long as you keep trying.
If you are moving to a place like Estevan or other communities in Saskatchewan, you’ll find that the people are friendly and welcoming. The citizens often want newcomers to appreciate the city as much as they do. But even though that’s the case, it still might take some time to break the ice. By trying new things, being brave in situations that might feel a little awkward and getting involved in activities that excite you, you will find friends quickly.