Although networking is a word often heard in the business world, it can also be found in other arenas as well. A support network can be a key ingredient for keeping your head above water when you’re new to an area or are a new mom. Read on to learn how to find a support network for yourself.
After I was married I moved from a large city to a small town where my husband was born and raised. Although everyone was very nice and welcomed me with open arms, I quickly realized that making friends in a small town was very different. I soon found out that joining the “inner circle” was difficult. Most of these women had grown up together and quite frankly, they didn’t need one more friend.
For years it was difficult to find women to hang out with. Often times it was very lonely, but at the same time, it taught me how to be resourceful in finding new friends. And since our area was growing, I could identify with and support the new women in a way that the local women could not.
In order to meet other women, sometimes you just have to get out of the house. Whether you go to the park, grocery store or gym, you have to force yourself to be in new environments where you can meet new people.
You also have to be friendly and assertive. Most people are shy and aren’t going to take the initiative to strike up a conversation. If you’re really looking for new friends, then you must take the first step. Whether it’s simply saying hello to someone you see at the gym every time you work out or striking up a conversation while at the park with your kids, make it a point to be pleasant and speak to someone new every time you’re out and about.
Depending on where you live, it might be hard to find people at a park or get to a gym. If that is the case, turn to your local community for help. Often times your local YMCA will offer classes for adults or perhaps you can meet people through volunteer organizations such as Rotary Club, The Junior League or volunteering at your local religious establishment. Find something you enjoy doing and get involved!
And if you’re a stay at home mom, there are lots of great ways to meet other moms; you just have to know where to look. Often time’s libraries will offer a weekly story time. This is an excellent way to meet new moms. Once you see the same moms week after week, why not invite them to meet you at a park or go to lunch after story time? Another great resource is a group called MOPS. Mothers of Preschoolers is an organization designed to help moms by having meetings twice a month where moms meet to discuss life, have fun, and socialize. To find a local meeting by you, check online at www.MOPS.org MOPS provides a wonderful opportunity to meet new women and allows you the freedom of being an adult rather than just mommy!
Whether you’re new in town or have just become a mom and need a support system, finding friends is not hard, if you know where to look. Be creative, friendly and assertive and you just might find life long friendships.
Betsy Canevari is a Work at Home Mom with a toddler. Her passion is to help other women learn how to make money by working at home. For more great tips for meeting and making friends, visit her Work At Home site.