1. Expect the unexpected.
It is good to have standards for your friendships, but it does not hurt to give most people a chance (maybe even several chances) before you realize a relationship will not work out. Some people may surprise you and keeping your options open instead of being too selective about who your next friend will be will benefit you in the long-run.
2. They accept you for who you are, instead of who they want you to be.
There is not always a need to get deep with everyone in your friend group. Sometimes you just need to have fun and be able to show the quirkiest parts of yourself without feeling judged. That being said, having a few select people to show your inner demons to without judgment is also necessary. It is the only path to growth and the only way you will move forward. This does not mean they will let you make destructive decisions but that they will be there throughout the messy process if you do end up making a mistake.
3. They encourage you to push your boundaries.
Inner strength and confidence are important to cultivate and it does not always come naturally. Everyone needs a good “kick in the pants” from time to time and if you find someone who keeps your safety in mind but wholeheartedly believes in your ability to try something new—you have found someone special.
4. They are there for you even when there is no adventure to be found.
If you find a person who is only willing to hang out with you when you are doing something exciting, you may want to reevaluate your friendship.
Now, you may have already realized what you desire, character-wise, for the people you choose to surround yourself with but you are in a new location and have no idea where to start when it comes to finding others in your area. Here are four action-oriented tips on how to seek out other adventurous people in your lives:
1. Short and simple—get outside!
This may seem a little obvious but that is only because it is a logical first step. Whether it be getting out of your house to take your dog to the park, hitting up your local rock climbing gym, or going on a hike; you never know when you could run into a new friend.
2. Social Media.
For women, Rad Girls Collective posts “community connections” on Instagram. These community connections feature outdoor women who are seeking someone in their area that share the same passion for their favorite outdoor hobbies. See if you can be featured or be on the lookout for anyone that may live in your area. To my knowledge, there are not many (if any) organizations that facilitate outdoorsmen connecting with other outdoorsmen or others who do not identify as male or female. Just be bold and if you come across someone you find interesting, PM them. You could also encourage companies or non-profits to begin their own “community connections” posts. As always, be mindful when making those connections.
3. Pick up a new hobby.
Purposefully pick your new hobby. Look for something you have been interested in for a while but have yet to try. It is also crucial that the hobby you choose be something that gets you out of the house and into your community. It can be anything from yoga to surfing, or even poetry readings at your local coffee shop.
4. Go on a trip.
So, the first three options did not connect you with anyone. Plan a trip! Perhaps with an organization that encourages people to get outside or one that is associated with one of your favorite hobbies. It may be unnerving to enter a new social situation alone but these trips are designed to bring people together, not to keep them isolated. Keep an open mind and you will be just fine.
Do you have any tips for finding your next adventure ally? Comment below!
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