Dear Dilemma Panel,

My name is Simon, I’m 31 years old, a newly graduate engineer, and I’m in need of new friends. I’ve always had a stable circle of friends, but lately, several of my old friends have moved to other cities of have become very busy with their work and family life. I often feel lonely and miss having company, but I find it incredibly difficult to make new friends as an adult. I’m not particularly outgoing by nature and quickly get nervous in social situations, which makes it even more difficult to build new friendships.

I’ve tried to challenge myself by participating in social activities, but I struggle to break the ice and quickly feel awkward starting a conversation with new people. I want to expand my circle of friends, but I really find it difficult now that I’ve finished my studies.

So dear Dilemma Panel, what should I do to overcome this hurdle? Do you have any advice on how to make new friends in adulthood?

Best regards,

Simon