It is a good icebreaker.
Sometimes, a good way to start a conversation is to comment on something that you both share or have in common. For example, let's say you are standing in line next to someone who is wearing a sweatshirt with the logo of your alma mater. You could start up a conversation by asking when they went, what their major was, and so forth.

It gives you something to do.
Common ground is a great foundation for a friendship because it gives the budding friendship something to do. For example, if you meet someone you feel like you click with in a yoga class, you can help develop your friendship through something you both like to do together-yoga. Bonding after a class by chatting afterwards or going to get a drink together will help build the friendship, but the common ground can initiate it.

It helps you find people who are like you.
Oftentimes, our best friendships are those who are like us. People have a natural rapport with those who are like them. That's why common ground is such a good foundation for friendship-if you have a common interest or some type of common ground with someone, it's a good indication that the person has the same personality traits as you. For example, let's say you meet someone while volunteering at an animal shelter. Chances are, you both love animals and are committed to actively helping with causes you believe in.

It helps you meet other people.
Making a friend based on common ground is a great way to meet other people who will also make good friends. For example, let's say you like to run and you meet someone who likes to run as well. That person invites you to her running club, where you meet many other potential friends. Having common ground opens up the door to other new friendships.

How to find common ground
The following are some ways you can make friends by discovering common ground.



• Don't be afraid to start up a conversation. If you notice something about someone that is common ground, like the sweatshirt example earlier, don't be afraid to strike up a conversation. Many people love to talk about their interests and passions, and finding someone else who shares that is always exciting.


•  Nurture your hobbies and interests. You can find people who have common ground by doing the things you enjoy. If you like to play tennis, join a league. If you're an animal lover, take your dog to a dog park. These things will help put you with people who have common ground.

Common ground is a great foundation for friendships. These are just a few ways you can find common ground.