Identifying The Best Places To Meet People You Are Interested In

There are likely many single individuals out there who may desire to meet someone with whom they can build a future, but they may experience difficulties meeting the right person or meeting someone they’re interested in at all.

Do you find yourself going through the motions of dating, only to discover that the person isn't right for you or you're not right for each other? Are you spending hours browsing online profiles but rarely see that one person who prompts you to feel excited about dating? Have you gone on countless first dates but don’t make it to the second date? If you answered yes to one or more of these questions, it may be possible you're seeking, pursuing, or dating the wrong people because you might be meeting them in the wrong places.

You may think meeting people should be easier today than ever before with all the social media platforms and online dating sites. This may be true to a certain point, but online options may hinder the traditional approach that some singles need. People can essentially be anyone they want to be on social media or dating sites. However, once they step back from behind the keyboard or screen, you may discover they are very different from you had imagined. Sometimes, dating apps can make it tough to meet just one person because they can make everyone feel as thought they have unlimited options. This can make it harder to feel truly happy when you choose one due to a psychological effect called the paradox of choice.

For some individuals, they may like their experiences with online dating and may have had much success. However, some people may prefer a more organic or traditional approach to meeting someone. If you're looking to meet new people or find love and don’t know where to go, continue reading below for some of the best places to meet men and women where you can have a good start.

Places to meet people

When it comes to meeting someone you can build a friendship with or a romantic relationship, it may help to visit places that peak your interests. This may be a place that offers activities or hobbies you enjoy. 

Sign up for a book club

If you enjoy reading, you can potentially find others who also enjoy reading by joining a book club. Reading can often be a solitary experience, but a book club may be an ideal option for singles who enjoy reading, like discussing books,  and want to meet people. If that's you, a book club can provide a platform to meet intellectual people who you already have at least one thing in common with: you enjoy books. 

Be neighborly

Do you know your neighbors? Getting to know the people in your community can be a great place to start when it comes to meeting new people. Do you see your neighbor out working in their flower garden or yard? You can try to walk over and introduce yourself. Even if your neighbor isn’t the ideal person for you, they can potentially introduce you to new people. 

You can also check within your neighborhood for community events or volunteer work where you are likely to meet many new people.

Host a meet and greet

A good way to meet new people is by hosting a party or gathering at a neutral location or in your own space. You can invite people you know and ask them to bring someone you don't know. This can ensure that at least half of your guests are strangers to you. The party can be informal or as formal as you'd like. Keep in mind that the idea is to allow people to mingle with each other and get to know each other, so a comfortable setting is ideal.

Attend art programs or cultural events

You can join a community forum or platform that can get you invited to most of the community cultural and art events. The local symphony, ballet, art galleries, and similar agencies may sponsor performances, exclusive events, and fundraising activities where you can potentially meet new people. Many towns or cities host paint night or have businesses that offer amateur paint classes that you may want to try out.

Join a local gym

If you’re into fitness, you can meet someone who is into fitness or healthy living just as much as you are at the local gym. The options available at most gyms vary and can allow you to choose between machines, classes, weights, and other options. During class or a workout isn't always the perfect time to engage in conversation, but afterward, you can strike up a conversation about the class with someone. Some gyms may offer juice bars or a café, and you can stop by following your workout to engage with other people.

Attend motivational or singles speaking engagements

This can be an ideal outlet to meet other people who are aiming to become more motivated in life. Meeting a person who is aligning their efforts with the goals they have can be a positive step towards making new connections. At these types of events, you may have the opportunity to meet new people while also bettering your personal goals and motivations.

Grab your laptop and stop by the coffee shop

Many people are working from home and it may make it difficult to meet new people in a professional setting. A great way to meet new people can be by spending some time at a local coffee shop. If you can, change things up and spend one or two days per week at a coffee shop catching up on work, replying to emails, or browsing social media. While you’re there, pay attention to others who are also there alone and see if there is anyone you’re interested in meeting.

Go out to dinner but sit at the bar

For some people, eating dinner alone at a restaurant is not very enjoyable and may be uncomfortable. However, eating at the bar of the restaurant may be a welcome change and a great place to meet others as many singles or sociable people tend to sit at the bar. If you decide to order your meal and sit at the bar, people are likely to come by, order drinks and chat with one another. Strangers at the bar often communicate with each other, and if you happen to be the only one there, you can even choose to strike up a conversation with the bartender. 

Be sociable

If you want to meet new people, it may help to be open to meeting new people. If going to social affairs or other events alone is uncomfortable for you, it may be time to face your fears and try to get out there more. Chances are, you are unlikely to be the only single person at an event. It may also help to meet friends and coworkers by accepting their social invites whenever possible as you never know when they may introduce you to someone new.

Volunteer

If you have like to volunteer, you may value people who also enjoy helping others. Check your community for local charity events and volunteer initiatives to see how you can get involved. Most volunteers are kind and willing to help, which may be admirable traits to have in a relationship.

Online therapy for building the confidence to meet new people

Making new connections can be an exciting experience, but for some, they may find it difficult meeting new people. If you're experiencing difficulties looking for love, or difficulties in your relationships, a professional therapist may be able to help. Regain is an online therapy platform specialized in relationships that can match you with a licensed therapist to best suit your needs. They can provide tools and guidance to help you overcome any challenges you may be facing in your relationship, or your path to one. Online therapy is convenient, discreet, and affordable. 

When you get in touch with Regain, you will complete a brief questionnaire answering question about your relationship and mental health. The platform will then use these questions to match you with someone who is specialized in your needs. Talking to a counselor can be extremely effective, whether it’s just you or you choose to do it with your partner—online therapy is effective!