We see it on TV, in movies, read about it in books, listen to it in songs… the kind of friendships that stand the test of time, weather all of life's challenges and have each other’s back to the bitter end. But in reality not everyone is lucky enough to have a 'bff' or a circle of close friends, especially as we get older. According to mind.org.uk research suggests that loneliness is associated with an increased risk of certain mental health problems, including depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, sleep problems and increased stress.

But there might be many reasons why people lack friends. Some may want more friends, while others are satisfied with fewer social connections. Some people may stick with friends that aren’t good friends at all... and can end up feeling lonelier than ever as a result.

Lane Moore is an award-winning comedian, writer, actor, and musician. She received a GLAAD award for her groundbreaking work expanding Cosmopolitan's queer coverage when she was the sex and relationships editor. Her rock band “It Was Romance” has been praised everywhere from Pitchfork to Vogue, and The New York Times called her hugely popular comedy show "Tinder Live” ingenious.

Lane’s debut book is the highly praised "How to Be Alone’ If You Want To, and Even If You Don't" and she has just released her second manuscript "You Will Find Your People: How to Make Meaningful Friendships as an Adult" which, like her first, is part memoir, part self-help book.

In this episode of The Happier Life Project, Lane shares with host Gabby how difficult she has found it to make deep, solid friendships, which inspired her to write "You Will Find Your People". Lane and Gabby also talk about how you have to put yourself out there if you want to widen your friendship circle and make new friends. Lane shares her advice on ways to meet new people plus how to come up with a common ground icebreaker to get the conversation going. Lane also talks about how society views people who are alone and why dog’s really are a man’s best friend.

For more on Lane Moore and all her work: https://www.lanemoore.org/

To download the free My Possible Self App: https://mypossibleself.app.link/podcast