Ever since we were kids, making friends was one thing that came naturally to all of us. Whether it was our first day at a new school or meeting new people in a city we just moved to, one thing that kept all of us going were our friends. However, as each of us grew older, we started drifting apart. Some moved to a new city for college while some simply moved on. Now, as an adult, making new friends has become the most tedious task. Unlike the good old days, we now introspect before letting anyone in our personal space. We do talk to our colleagues and joke around a bit here and there, but can we really call them friends? Well, let’s put an end to this and understand how you can actually make good friends as an adult.

Look for People With Similar Interests

Your hobbies, your likes, and even your dislikes can make a huge difference in making friends. You need someone who understands when you talk about your passion, people you can take spin classes with, or simply have a gossip session with over your favorite coffee. The best way to do this is by joining a hobby club, this is where you can come across people who share similar interests with you and start a conversation with them. Join a book club or a class that caters to your hobby and you might find like-minded people there.

Be Approachable

We all hate people who are looking at their phones while we talk to them. Do not be that person. When you are in a social gathering, try to look interested, approachable, and warm. No one is going to come and initiate a conversation with someone who doesn’t even bother to look up from their electronic devices. Make sure you let the world know that you are here to socialize, otherwise simply hang out in your room with your phone.

Be the Person With Positive Vibes

Instead of complaining about how you could have stayed at home, or how bad the food is, try to put forward positive vibes. Talk to people about what you like at that very moment, or how much you enjoy meeting your potential future friends. In fact, appreciating something around you can also be a great icebreaker and can help you continue the conversation. Just make sure you come off as polite and not some cold stranger.

Have One-on-One Interactions

Suppose you went to a party with your colleagues and hit it off with someone from the group, what next? Well, if you think this person is someone you can be friends with, make an effort. Go ahead and plan a one-on-one meeting with them. Hang out, go for lunch, grab a coffee before work, and interact. Talk about yourself and learn new things about them and do things together that excite you both. However, if you are not too comfortable with private meetings, invite them to another, smaller gathering, and talk. The first step matters the most to start off what can be a great friendship.

If you’ve ever had trouble sleeping, you know that unless you get a night of good 8-hour sleep, the following day can be a real nightmare. Although there are many tips and tricks to help improve the quality of your sleep, like meditation, scents, sounds, herbal teas, and routine, they don’t always work for everybody. Well, here are five high-rated products that many people claim are efficient in helping them get a good night’s rest.

1. Deep Sleep Pillow Spray

The Deep Sleep pillow spray by This Works is certainly a must-have for any troubled sleeper. Its mix of chamomile, vetivert, and lavender effectively soothes the sense and helps you fall asleep naturally and easily. The brand claims to have sold more than six million sprays so far, and judging by customer reviews, there’s a good reason to get it yourself too. People are happy with the results and really love the calming scent.

2. Bluetooth Headband

Don’t you just hate it when your earphones dig into your head, preventing you from falling asleep to your favorite podcast or jam? This Bluetooth headband that also doubles as an awesome eye mask will last for up to eight hours of playing time with just a two-hour charge. The best part? Its control panel is in the middle at the front, meaning side sleepers don’t have to worry about sleeping in their favorite position. You can safely put the mask in the washing machine, just don’t forget to remove the headphones from the pocket first.

3. Chillmax Pillow

If you’re like many people who prefer the cool side of the pillow, this genius Chillmax cooling mat will be your new best friend. The pillow doesn’t require any filling or water as it naturally transfers the heat away from the body. In case you’d like to make it extra cold, just put it in the fridge for a bit before you go to bed, and voila!

4. Aromatherapy Stick

Be as skeptical as you want, but many troubled sleepers like you have already tried it and agree it helps them go to sleep. Just roll the stick over your pulse points about half an hour before you go to bed, and let it help you unwind and naturally drift off. The balm contains shea butter and beeswax, and it’s infused with a blend of chamomile, lavender, and ylang-ylang essential oils.

5. White Noise Machine

The science of using soothing sounds to improve one’s sleep is undeniable. Whether it is a bonfire, a birdsong, or even a thunderstorm, there is a wide range of available sounds from which you can choose. Just charge it with a USB before bedtime, and you’re ready to sleep the night away!