I moved to a new city in my 20s and knew no one. Going to the same cafe every day helped me make connections.

"Showing up at the café consistently became the key to building friendships."

"I felt the need for connection, and making eye contact with fellow customers hoping they'd engage with me."

"On a rainy day, I spotted a guy playing Carrom alone and asked if he was up for a game."

"Two months later, we got better, and two other players joined our Carrom ritual."

At 25, I relocated for a job to a new city where I was initially isolated. To combat loneliness, I began visiting a local café regularly. Observing the social interactions around me heightened my desire for connection. Trying to initiate conversations was challenging but led to a pivotal moment when I approached a person playing Carrom. This gaming experience blossomed into a friendship, and I eventually found a community of fellow players, revitalizing my social life.

Read at Business Insider