Hooked on Passion: How Your Obsessions Can Lead to Lifelong Friendships

Let’s face it—making new friends isn’t what it used to be.

These days, it can feel like everyone’s more interested in their screens than the people right in front of them. Combine that with the rising tide of loneliness sweeping across all ages and backgrounds, and the simple act of saying hello can feel almost impossible.

But here’s a powerful truth: your passions are more than hobbies—they’re beacons.

Think about what lights you up inside. Maybe it’s fly fishing at sunrise, chasing the perfect cast on a quiet river. (I know that one well.) Maybe it’s sketching, trail running, vintage video games, or baking sourdough on Sundays. Whatever it is, that passion can do more than fill your cup—it can help you find your people.

When you lead with what you love, friendships come easier. Shared passions create instant bonds, unspoken understanding, and stories worth telling. It’s a far better icebreaker than “So, what do you do?”

Don’t wait for connection to knock on your door.

Seek out local meetups, online communities, and platforms (like the one we’re building at Perdata.ai) that help you connect around shared loves at live events. You’ll be surprised how many kindred spirits are just a conversation—or a cast—away.

Because friends made through passion; those are the ones that last.

Pete O’Dell is the CEO & Co-Founder of Perdata.ai, a platform built to spark real-world friendships through shared passions at live events.

Photo by Ian Schneider on Unsplash