Building a New Social Network: Making Friends and Finding Community in Your New Home

You don’t know how hard it is to build a new social network and a new community until you have to. I remember a conversation I was having with a couple of friends very recently and we talked about the overwhelming loneliness that comes with moving to another country to start a new life. It yanks you so completely from everything familiar, from everything that you know and places you squarely into the unknown.

Everything, and I mean everything is strange. Social life, food, dating life, culture and even the most inane inside jokes that only your country people would understand and how even that also makes you feel removed and like an outsider when your new friend group share inside jokes you don’t understand. 

Ugh, I hate that’s I am writing/posting this but.. living abroad and away from all your friends and family is 🤬 lonely. I’m struggling.

— Bianca (@PlanBianca) January 27, 2022

 All of these are so important it holds a lot of people back from relocating and they would somehow manage Nigeria as it is than relocate. 

A woman tweeted the other day that one of the reasons she has not relocated is the community and support system she knows she has over here. It is not easy to build a brand-new community from the ground up. Every day I come on Twitter and see people complain about the overwhelming loneliness. 

Called my MIL that I need rest and I’m bringing her grandkids.
She said “ah thank God. Please, let them stay till Monday, I need the noise”.
Again, this support system is reason 1-500 of why I haven’t relocated. 🤣🤣🤣🤣

— A. (@Aunty_Les) April 20, 2023

 How then do you deal with this? How do you cope? How do you not just survive but also thrive? As exciting as the prospect of a better life is, we are still social animals and need our community one way or the other especially if you grew up having them around, supporting you.

How to Build Your Social Network and Community In A New Home

Be intentional

When it comes to building your social network and community, you will need to be very intentional about your actions and choices. You will need to intentionally wake up every day and choose to be proactive. It can be so easy to allow yourself to sink, sink in the loneliness, in the “aloneness” of it all.

You will need to choose “to do” every day, whether it be joining groups, going to the gym, putting yourself out there, talking to people, or extending the first hand of friendship, or help. Whatever you need to do, put fear aside and do it. You need to realize that more often than not, the community you want will not walk inside the house to meet you or drop from heaven, you will need to be intentional and put in the work. 

Join Social Groups and Clubs

One of the best ways to meet new people is to join social groups and clubs that align with your interests. Whether it’s a book club, a hiking group, a volunteer organization, or a sports team, there are plenty of opportunities to connect with like-minded people. Check local community centres, libraries, and online forums to find out about events and groups in your area. You can join Facebook groups of your new community and show up at organized events and also volunteer. 

Attend Community Events

Attending community events is another great way to meet new people and learn about your new home. Look for local festivals, markets, concerts, and fairs and attend them with an open mind. Strike up conversations with people around you, and don’t be afraid to introduce yourself and ask questions. There is no need to be afraid, you might be pleasantly shocked at the welcoming hands you will receive. 

Volunteer

Volunteering is a fantastic way to give back to your new community while also meeting new people. Look for local organizations or charities that align with your values and interests, and offer your time and skills. Not only will you be making a positive impact, but you’ll also be surrounded by like-minded people who share your passion for giving back. It’s a win win win. You get to help people with your gift and time, you also get to meet people, start building your community and also learn new things along the way. 

Attend Networking Events

Networking events are another great way to meet new people and build your professional network. Look for local events in your industry or attend business networking events in your area. You never know who you’ll meet and how they may be able to help you in your career.

Use Social Media

Social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn can be powerful tools for building a new social network. Join local groups and follow local organizations and businesses in your area to stay up to date on events and opportunities. You can also use social media to connect with people you’ve met in person and build relationships with them.

Join a Sports Team or Gym

Joining a sports team or gym can be a great way to meet people who share your interests and are also interested in staying active. Participating in team sports can also help you build camaraderie and make new friends. 

Get to Know Your Neighbours

Making an effort to get to know your neighbours can help you feel more connected to your community. You can introduce yourself, bring over a small gift, or organize a block party or barbecue.

Take Language Classes

If you are moving to a new country where the language is different, taking language classes can be a great way to meet people who are also new to the area. This also helps you to learn the local language and culture.

I lived abroad for 25 years from my family, friends & NYC.
At first it was real hard dealing with the loneliness, a new culture, new language ect.
I learned to embrace my differences while I educated myself about my new home.
It will one day “just click”. Enjoy it, embrace it

— Neil Weiss 🇺🇸🇺🇳🇬🇧 🌊🇺🇦🗽 VOTE BLUE (@NeilWeiss88) January 28, 2022

 Be Open and Approachable

The most important thing you can do to build a new social network is to be open and approachable. Smile, make eye contact, and introduce yourself to new people. Be genuinely interested in others, and don’t be afraid to ask questions and share your own interests and experiences.

Conclusion

It will not be easy, it won’t be a walk in the park but will a lot of intentionality and openness on your part, you will find that it is not completely impossible to build a new community, improve your social network and make new friends.