What are some cheap ways to improve my social life

Very sorry about your financial situation. I'd like to comment that imrovement in social life does come with increased opportunities towards a better standard of living. That being said, the one free tip I can give you is that people are selfish creatures who need you more then you need them but they have a sixth sense for manipulation. Think of it, power is what makes things move. Electricity (power) moves a fan, glows a light and heats your food. The things your looking for need some power to get fulfilled. Maybe you think it's money. But it also means that you can detach from your needs and examine them. What do you see? It's exactly what others want. Who gives it to them? The person with power over them.

 

In the company that I currently work for, I have learned that any social event organised through work that can be affordably attended should be, as scary as they may seem.

 

In my case:
1) stop approaching social situations from the perspective of taking something (affirmation, friendship, love, sex)
2) don't pretend to be someone you are not (low selfesteem + wanting to take = pretending to be someone else = being a manipulator / pleaser)

solution:
approach situation from a perspective of giving. Give some attention, affirmation, support. Expect nothing in return.

 

As you are returning to the workforce, what work are you doing? Is it sociable work, do you get to meet people and work along side other people?

JackStrident's suggestion is a good one... I made a good friend by offering to help her out when she was moving house, just helping her load up/unload the van then we shared a cup of tea and had a chat. Help out where you can, listen to people and be interested in them and what is going on with their lives, and they will want to spend time with you. And in much more fulfilling ways than just 'going out'.

 

You need to get out of the victim mentality and see things more positively.
Noone is stopping you from looking for a better job or side income if that one really isn't enough.
I also think your MMA training is overpriced, unless you get one on one tutoring.

Just talk to people. It doesn't really cost anything, unless you feel the need to invite them for coffee.
You can also do some cheap outdoor activities like jogging, walking, hiking, swimming, parkour, slacklining, bouldering, urban exploring, ...

That can easily get you a "sexual harassment" claim. I would be careful with those.

 

@Immor Probably aplies to

too.

 

Volunteering for your community is free and there are usually lots of like minded people. A few weekends ago I volunteered to "beautify" my community sign. There were literally 25 people there digging, planting, weeding, mowing, laughing and talking! It was great. Find something in your community that interests you and volunteer.

If you want to go on a free/cheap date there are a ton of options! Hike in the woods, bike riding, make her food at your house (spaghetti is cheap!), picnic in the park etc.

 

Just as @Limeaid said : Volunteer in a charity.It's the best way for socializing and probably one of the best human activities as the people who volunteer are usually the people with the best ethical qualities as they sacrifice their time just to help others.

 

Look at meetup.com - Tons of cheap groups to join, many events are free or a few bucks for the day. Lots of hiking groups are listed in there, you find something you like to do.

 

I would look into outdoor groups.
Hiking, biking you can go to popular places and make friends right there. Or join groups who go.
Just be friendly and you will begin to make friends.

 

I agree with nomo,

Meetup.com is a great way to meet new people and do a lot of things for free, or really inexpensive!

 

He says that he tried this site and it hasn't worked. Maybe finding people that you work with to do some activities.