National Make A Friend Day is a holiday observed annually on February 11th. It encourages people to look beyond their established social groups and make new friends. After all, new friends can broaden a person’s horizons and help them see things in ways they otherwise wouldn’t. People can make new friends by exploring their interests or hobbies, or simply by expanding their social circle. It’s a day everyone should consider celebrating, no matter how many or how few friends they currently have.

The History of National Make A Friend Day

Even though we conducted extensive research into this holiday, we were unable to find its origins. Its history seems to have been lost, and it was probably started as an online initiative of some sort. Unfortunately, we just don’t know who invented it or when it was invented.

Facts About Friends & Friendship

We believe without a doubt that friendship is one of the strongest forces in the world. It’s a relationship that helps people become more empathetic and broadens their horizons. In honor of this relationship, we’ve decided to list some facts that we’ve discovered about friends and friendship.

• Only one out of 12 friendships last a significant length of time.
• Most people will make almost 400 friends during their lifetime.
• According to a Gallup poll released in 2004, Americans have an average of eight close friends.
• According to the same Gallup poll, 2% have no close friends, and 14% have one or two close friends.
• According to science, not having friends is as dangerous to a person’s health as smoking.
• Marriages last longer between people who have built their relationship on a strong friendship.
• Friendships make people more empathetic.
• Many animals can form lifelong friendships with other animals.
• People who gain a new romantic partner may lose up to two of their friends.
• Loneliness is a serious problem in the United States.

Observing National Make A Friend Day

The first and most important rule for National Make A Friend Day is to go out there and make a new friend. This can be a friend of a friend or someone completely outside of your social circle. It’s also a good idea to make that friendship in real life, and not just on social media. Everyone needs that special relationship that can only occur between friends, so go out there and make some new ones.

People can also use the hashtag #NationalMakeAFriendDay on their social media accounts. Another way to celebrate this holiday is to ensure that your current friendships are strong and healthy. You can do this by reconnecting with friends you haven’t seen in a while or by removing friends from your social circle that may be toxic. The point of all this is to go out there and connect with people who make you a better person.