3 ways to build a community as an immigrant in Switzerland
Building a community in Switzerland can feel like a reaaaally hard hike. Friend groups seem locked, schedules are packed, and "spontaneous" isn't exactly in the Swiss vocabulary (and immigrants assimilated to the rhythm).
But having a real, thriving community/ friend group is definitely possible. It just requires more intention.
Here are 3 research-backed ways to actually build one.
1. Ditch the "Luck" Mindset & Put in the Work
The first step is a mental one. A study* found that people who believe friendships happen based on luck were significantly lonelier five years later. Those who believed friendships take effort? They were less lonely because they actually put in the effort. As an adult, friendships don't just happen. You have to choose to create them. That means RSVPing 'yes', showing up, and engaging.
2. Create Consistent Rituals
It takes roughly 80-100 hours* of quality time to build a close friendship. You're never going to hit that number by going to a random event once a month. The secret is consistency.
Instead of: A random padel game with colleagues this week and a pottery class in three weeks.
Try: Joining a padel team that practices regularly, or committing to a 5-week course with the same group. When you show up to the same place at the same time, you create predictable opportunities for connection. You're building up those hours with the same people, all centered around an interest you already share.
3. Make the Next Step Obvious
When you meet someone you click with, don't let the momentum die. The single best tactic is to schedule the next hangout before you leave the current one. It can be as simple as, "This was so fun! Are you free for a coffee next Thursday?" Getting it on the calendar right away makes it 10x more likely to happen. When you find something that works for both of you, try making it a recurring thing, like a standing lunch date every few weeks.
Building a community is an active process, but it’s the most rewarding work you’ll ever do.
At Playhard, we create the system for these rituals and connections to happen naturally, so you can focus on the fun part. So whether you’re joining our regular padel matches or diving into a great book with our monthly book club, you’re not just showing up for an activity—you’re stepping into a consistent community of girls ready to connect over the things you already love.
Sources:
For the study on friendship beliefs and loneliness:
Newall, N. E., Chipperfield, J. G., Clifton, R. A., Perry, R. P., Swift, A. U., & Ruthig, J. C. (2009). Causal beliefs, social participation, and loneliness among older adults: A longitudinal study. Journal of Social and Personal Relationships, 26(4), 427–446.
For the study on the hours it takes to make a friend:
Hall, J. A. (2018). How many hours does it take to make a friend? Journal of Social and Personal Relationships, 36(4), 1278–1296.
