Lessons from The Big Bang Theory's Sheldon Cooper For some, making friends can be a challenge. Mr. Rooter ^® is celebrating National Make a Friend Day on February 11, and who better to share some "scientific" research on how to make friends than one of our favorite TV sitcom characters, Dr. Sheldon Cooper from CBS's The Big Bang Theory. In this episode, Cooper attempts to befriend a co-worker using his algorithm.

Tips on Making Friends - As Explained by Dr. Sheldon Cooper

1. Decide who you would like to become friends with and approach them. The algorithm suggests calling, but if you work together or have a gym class in common, it would make sense to take the personal approach and speak face-to-face.
2. Cooper suggests asking the potential new friend to share a meal. If you are uncomfortable with the thought of an entire meal with a new person, it may be more practical to ask them out for a coffee, trip to the museum or a happy hour drink.
3. If they don't want to have a meal or a beverage (hot or cold), find out what sorts of hobbies and interests they hold. Do any of these match your own? Perhaps you are both avid readers, enjoy rock climbing or are die-hard sports fans. Embrace your shared enthusiasm and find ways to enjoy your interests together.

Forging new friendships can be difficult and even a little scary! The key is to embrace the commonalities and celebrate the differences in each other. As Leonard Hofstadter, Cooper's roommate on the show said, "If you want to learn how to make friends, then just go out to a coffee shop or a museum. Meet people. Talk to them. Take an interest in their lives."

Or, do what Mr. Rooter does and utilize the golden rule, every day in every way. Treat others as you would like to be treated and you won't need an algorithm to make friends, it will happen naturally.