Why is it so hard to make friends as an adult?

We’re surrounded by people, yet making a genuinely close friend as an adult can feel surprisingly difficult. Why?

In this open dialogue, we’ll explore how friendship changes as we grow older. As children, friendship often happens naturally. We meet people at school, through activities, or simply because we spend time together. As adults, making new friends can take more effort, vulnerability, time and a willingness to put ourselves out there.

So what changes?

Are we too busy, too independent, or simply more guarded? Do we expect too much from friendship? And why can it sometimes feel easier to meet people than to build a real connection with them?

In this Curious Mind Forum conversation, we’ll share different perspectives and explore what makes adult friendship challenging, what gets in the way of deeper connection, and whether making new friends really has to become harder as we grow older.

Please arrive between 15:45 and 15:55

We’re going to meet in front of Arundel House so we can begin promptly at 16:00

Getting here: Nearest Tube: Temple, District and Circle lines Buses: Several routes stop nearby, including 15, 23, 26, 76, 139, 172 and 176

Important: Please make every effort to arrive on time. We’ll begin the dialogue at 16:00 and will be waiting for everyone to gather before we start. Arriving by 15:55 will give you enough time to settle in, meet a few people and be part of the conversation from the very beginning.

Please also keep your RSVP updated if your plans change, as it helps us know who to expect.

Thank you, and I’m really looking forward to meeting you all and sharing this conversation together.

Ana 🤍