A year ago, Rachel, Elvira and I were strangers. Now we meet for dinner as firm friends. Despite the common belief that making friends becomes harder with age, I have discovered it is possible to build a new social circle in your 30s.
Research suggests that 69% of people find it more difficult to form close friendships as they get older, with studies indicating it takes around 200 hours of contact to develop a close bond. Psychotherapist Kaytee Gillis notes that adults must actively carve out time for social activities amid busy schedules, unlike in childhood when social interactions are woven into daily life.
I crashed into my mid-30s with a social diary full of weekend-sized holes, as friends moved to suburbia, got married and had children. While I was happy for them, I felt a sense of loss as our connections faded. I realised I needed to meet people living a similar life to mine.
A friend recommended Bumble BFF, the platonic version of the dating app. Initially reluctant, I found that swiping for friends came with its own set of rejections and self-doubt. However, it ultimately led to new connections.
Today, I have slowly gathered a small network of new people. Making friends in your 30s is not confined to school or work; with a mix of apps and a positive attitude, it is achievable.
