Jaelyn Darrel5 months ago"I'm 19 years old and a shy girl, and I’m really tired of being alone. I’d rate myself as maybe a 5 or 6 out of 10 in terms of looks, and throughout my life, only one guy showed interest in me, but that was just for two weeks, and nothing came of it. I don’t trust dating apps, and I’m not a fan of going to parties. So, how can I meet new people and start liking them? Any advice?" Answer: It sounds like you’re feeling a bit stuck, but don’t worry—there are plenty of ways to meet people and develop connections that don’t involve parties or dating apps. Here are a few suggestions: Join Hobbies or Groups: A great way to meet people and potentially form connections is through activities you already enjoy or things you’ve always wanted to try. Whether it's a book club, a hobby like painting or photography, fitness classes, or volunteering, being around people with similar interests makes it easier to start conversations and build relationships naturally. Be Open to New Experiences: You don’t need to change who you are, but stepping out of your comfort zone little by little can open new doors. For example, you might try taking a class or attending an event where you can engage with others in a low-pressure environment. This gives you an opportunity to practice socializing and meeting new people in a relaxed setting. Develop Self-Confidence: It’s completely normal to feel shy or uncertain, especially if you've had limited experiences with relationships. Focus on what makes you unique and valuable, and practice self-love. The more comfortable and confident you feel in your own skin, the easier it will be to connect with others. Be Patient: Building meaningful connections takes time. Don’t rush the process or feel discouraged if things don’t happen quickly. Sometimes the best relationships develop naturally over time, often when you're least expecting them. Online Communities: If you’re not a fan of traditional dating apps, consider participating in online communities that align with your interests. You can meet people through forums, social media groups, or gaming communities, which could help you connect with like-minded individuals in a more organic way. Take Things Slowly: If you do find someone you’re interested in, try to take things slow and focus on building a solid friendship first. The more you get to know someone, the easier it will be to understand if there’s potential for something deeper. Remember, relationships and connections take time, and it’s important to be kind to yourself along the way. Keep an open mind, and trust that the right person will come along when the time is right. 1115