This article was written for Silversurfers, which is now part of Rest Less.
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Saying ‘yes’ to giving a new shared experience a try could be the start of something amazing, claims national friendly society the Oddfellows.
The encouraging message is part of the not-for-profit’s Friendship Month celebrations this September, as it hosts hundreds of taster events and social activities across the UK designed to bring people together and spark new local friendships.
Psychologist, best-selling author and friend of the Oddfellows, Dr Andy Cope, agrees in the power of ‘yes’.
Expert Dr Andy Cope says stepping outside your comfort zone can lead to unexpected and rewarding experiences.
He explained: “It breaks you out of your comfort zone, gives you more opportunities to have fun, helps build self-confidence, and best of all, could introduce you to new friends.
“While routine can offer a sense of comfort, turning down chances for new friendships might actually be limiting your potential for greater happiness.
“Having your favourite seat to sit in, a favourite mug, or going to the same places for lunch provides you with reassuring familiarity.
“We’re hard-wired to resist change and to say ‘no’ to anything that challenges our regular habits.
“But switching up your routine from time to time and saying ‘yes’ to shared experiences and new friendships is crucial to your wellbeing and happiness,” he added.
The Oddfellows has around 39,000 members, mostly older adults, based across 96 branches nationwide.
“The Oddfellows is not called a ‘friendly society’ for nothing,” said Dr Cope. “You’ll be meeting lovely people, but it takes courage to try something new.”
He acknowledges it can be daunting. He said: “My advice is to wait five seconds before you say either ‘yes’ or ‘no’ to anything. This stops you going to a default position of saying ‘no’ and gives you enough time to overcome an instinctive response, or to overthink.”
Breaking out of comfort zones helps to build social-confidence and new connections.
The Oddfellows’ Friendship Month taster events cover a wide range of activities including teas, talks, walks, lunches, quizzes and days out.
Jane Nelson, CEO of the Oddfellows, encourages anyone who feels nervous about attending a Friendship Month taster event to ease their worries by removing as many of the unknowns as possible.
“Contact the event hosts beforehand,” she advised. “They’ll let you know what to expect, how to find us, and guide you through what to do when you arrive.
“Please do find the confidence to say ‘yes’ to exploring new friendships this September because you’ll be made very welcome.”
The Oddfellows is a mutual run by members, for members, to improve the quality of people’s lives. Its local friendship groups host around 750 in-person and online social events and activities each month, offer volunteering opportunities and a travel club. Members also benefit from wellbeing support and welfare advice with dedicated helplines.
The Oddfellows also hosts regular online open days for people looking to find out more about becoming a member.
To learn more and to receive a free information pack and local events diary, call 0800 028 1810, email [email protected], or visit www.friendshipmonth.com
