Difficulty making friends

[Coolgreys]

So I tend to make friends more easily with older generations. My parents age or older. I have an anxious time with my peers. Always have. They just seem too intense as if you have to be a certain way in order to be associated with. Is there any truth to this? Or is it distorted thinking? Are my peers as welcoming and easy to get along with as the older crowd and I’m missing out?

But also, I tend to make these older friends while out doing hobbies, i.e. book club, volunteer gardening club… So maybe it has more to do with common interests than age. Idk.

I always feel like younger people are always working toward something. Networking on some level. Like they’re always working an angle. Is there truth to this?

I hate feeling like the odd man out. It happens all the time, most recently at work. It almost feels like bullying. But perhaps my anxiety and subsequent aloofness is perceived as snobbishness? I don’t know how to just relax and enjoy and be unguarded.

HELP

[Gillyflower18]

You are not alone. Im the same way and i agree that it may be related to our interests. Ive always been fascinated by history and gardening. This has led hobbies that generally didnt interest people my age like spinning, pottery gsrdening etc. I like doing things the old way from scratch. I found the stories of the older generation engrossing. Its just the way we are and its ok. You have to look but there are people your age who share your interests as i have.

[Coolgreys in reply to Gillyflower18]

I really like, “It’s just the way we are and it’s ok” and I believe there are people like me of similar age out there. I think I’ll have to push myself to be a little more outgoing and friendly. Thanks!

[Midori in reply to Coolgreys]

I have always been like you, I'm into history and other odd things, but I don't let it bother me.

I like older folk too, I enjoy listening to their stories of the 'old days'. I used to be a nurse and I often worked with veterans. and I learned a lot from them,

Cheers, Midori

[RS1974]

You're right the younger generations are not as approachable as Gen x and boomers in my opinion.

[Stippler]

Hi Coolgreys - I relate to older people as well. Many of my best friends have passed away now. Not a lot of people to talk to anymore. I hope you are able to make friends who you can relate with. Sending peace.

[Amysmom]

Hi, when I much much younger lol I was the same way I could always talk with ease to older people maybe because they had gone through so much and they are way way more interesting ( except for me that is lol) then younger people cause they are really just starting out with their lives. Me I am pretty boring but I am ok with that. Most of the people I talk to are younger I just get along with them better. I am sure there are people your age out there it's just a matter of finding them. Good luck I wish you well