Guideline for Men: How To Meet People

It can be hard to meet others when people are tethered to their devices.  Social media does not take the place of personal connections.  You might be introverted. Or on your own after divorce or death of a spouse.  When suddenly single, you can be at loose ends how to pick up your life without your social director (spouse).   Or you may not feel comfortable sharing your fears and concerns with co-workers. etc.  It’s easy to feel you are alone and not realize many other men are also going through transitions such as divorce. What is the remedy?   Join a men’s group or club. 

Ways to connect with others

What sport did you enjoy in the past? Get back into rugby or whatever and have fun while making connections. Sometimes after playing, there is social time at a pub.

MeetUp.com has groups for various interests globally. There are hiking ones, social gatherings, photography, food and movie ones. Also, for specific concerns, like the wonderful divorce one in London. You can make friends with other guys and women. 

Volunteering is a way to help out and meet others at the same time. My divorce friend met her second husband at an animal rescue charity.

Check with your local church, synagogue or mosque to see what men’s group is available.  For example, Rothley Church Men’s Group in Leicester (RCMG ) has The Men’s Breakfast Club, and various events such as a walk in nature. Their Monday night men’s meetings have lively conversation with guest speakers. Their aim is “to offer the opportunity to all men to meet in fellowship: sharing and learning from life’s experiences….”   

Men’s Groups

Groups vary in different ways. Some are social and others more like group therapy. In all, you will meet people and possibly make new friends.  The websites show the nuances between them. The rule of confidentiality is common for all. What is said in the room stays in the room.  Men’s groups provide a safe space for sharing concerns and problems.  They are non-judgmental. You learn from others what has worked and what did not.  The men’s groups listed are suggestions to get you started. 

MenSpeak Men’s Groups (In-person & Online) – Meetup   “are facilitated, not lead, and our spaces are non-hierarchical and non-clinical. We meet the needs of the men present and follow wherever the conversation naturally takes us. There isn’t a right or wrong way of doing things.  This group is more conversational than group therapy. “

The ManKind Project  helps men get support from each other to go deeply into their issues, and gain clarity. Mankind Project is “A global network of free peer-facilitated men’s groups and supports men in leading lives of integrity, authenticity, and service.” It is structured and not a venue for casual conversation. Its foundation is based upon Jungian principles.  Some men are not comfortable with this structure which is like group therapy, and other men like it.

Connecting with others helps life transitions to be less stressful. You realize others are on the similar journeys. journey.

Author is Wendi Schuller