Low Pressure Places to Meet New People and Build New Relationships

Meeting new people can be stressful, especially if you aren't into bars, clubs or online dating. There are, however many free or low cost activities and places where you can make new friendships and find the relationship you're looking for. Here are just a few:

The Local Public Library. Believe it or not, your local public library is a great place to meet people. Single people very often go to the library to get out of the house and read where there are other people around. Single parents often go there with their children. People who are self-employed or consulting very often go to the library to work or do research. Many people take their laptops and use the free internet service available. Be sure to check the library's calendar of events which usually includes films, lectures, book clubs, courses and discussion groups. Best of all, it's free!

Barnes & Noble or Borders Book Stores. Many single people spend Friday and Saturday nights at these two popular book store chains. The stores usually have couches and chairs where you can curl up with a book, free internet WiFi access for your laptop and coffee shops. You don't even need to purchase a book or buy a cup of coffee.

Starbucks. Rather than taking out your soy latte, try sitting down and enjoying it at Starbucks. Starbucks is a home away from home or an office outside the home for many single people. Free WiFi is now available and very often people with laptops share a table and electrical outlet. Weekday evenings and early evenings are usually good times to go.

Church Programs and Ministries. Church is a wonderful place to meet people who share your interests without a lot of undue social pressure. Take bible study classes, work on church programs for the homeless, senior citizens, youth or other ministries. You can also join church committees and work on the church carnival or other fundraising events. Many churches now even have social programs for singles, divorced and widowed members. It's another free opportunity too!

Volunteer With Non-Profit Organizations. Non-profit associations, hospitals and other groups attract people of all ages from all walks of life who are looking to meet similar-minded people for friendship, companionship or a deeper relationship. Many also offer a full calendar of social and fundraising events which are ideal places to meet new people. Find local non-profit groups on the internet and visit their website to find out where the opportunities are and which you think are best for you.

Community Involvement. Most cities and towns offer many opportunities for its residents to get involved in government and community projects. Visit your local municipal town hall or check their website for areas where you can get involved and meet new people.

Political Campaigns. Candidates running for public office always need people to to telephone canvassing, hand out literature, accompany the candidate to different social functions and perform office activities in campaign headquarters. Just make sure the candidate's views on local issues are similar to your own. Also expect to get hit up for a campaign contribution at some point in time.

Performing Arts Organization Memberships. Becoming a member or sponsor of a performing arts center, museum, theater, music or dance company or any other cultural organization is an excellent way to meet new people and enjoy something you love. Just make sure to become involved in the group's social, community and fundraising activities.

Ballroom Dancing Classes. Taking Ballroom Dancing classes has long been a way to meet new people. With the popularity of the TV Show Dancing With The Stars, more people of all ages are becoming interested in learning ballroom dancing. Most cities usually have at least an Arthur Murray Dance Studio or Fred Astaire Dance Studio in the area as well as other independent studios. Sign up for group lessons so you meet people ... group lessons are cheaper too!

Continuing Education Classes. People with doctorate degrees, masters' degrees, bachelors' degrees and high school diplomas alike take continuing education courses to learn a new skill, interest or hobby. Courses are offered in a wide range of areas including cooking, conversational French, Italian and Spanish, art, painting, drawing, acting, investing, music, personal finance, dancing, creative writing, entrepreneurship, home repairs, auto repairs, computers, interior design ... the list is endless. Just make sure you sign up for a class that interests you and where you will meet the right people. For example, if you're a woman looking to meet a man, don't expect to find him in a course on needlepoint. Likewise a man probably won't meet very many women in an auto repair class. Most classes are very inexpensive and are offered at local high schools and junior colleges.

Personal Introductions. Ask relatives, friends and co-workers for help in meeting people. Skip the "blind date" and have a very casual. low pressure meeting such as for dinner or drinks at a friend's home.

Meeting people in this low keyed, low pressure takes time. So give things a chance and don't expect to meet Mr or Ms Right on your first try.