When you are at an event and walk into a big room alone and see groups of people chatting, how do you feel?
Are you pumped, jazzed and excited to meet new people and/or reconnect with people you know?
Are you wanting to run far and fast away, with visions of Grade 7 haunting you?
Somewhere in the middle perhaps?
For me, I feel like I'm in the margin.
When I was new to my professional association, it was really hard to see so many people connecting like long-lost friends (because they were!). I felt like such an outsider - well because I was. It was awkward and uncomfortable and even though they certainly weren't trying to make me feel that way, that was the result.
Until...
I started bringing chocolate.
Yes, I'm not above bribing people to be my friend and a tiny amount of good Swiss Milk Chocolate will do it just about every time! People started fighting to have me at their tables (#NotTrue ) and it was a really great way to break the ice.
More recently, at my weekly Rotary meetings, instead of choosing a table a chatting only with the people there, I have invented a new role, that of 'waterer'.
'May I water you?' I ask as I go table to table before our early morning meeting begins.
I would say 98% of people are grateful that I fill up their glasses with water.
I love doing this because people who would not normally drink a glass of water along with their cuppa Joe, are doing a little something good for their body and I feel I'm helping a wee bit.
AND...most importantly, I get to go around and say hello to each and every person there (usually around 40 ish), whereas without this role I would mostly just talk with those at my table.
So actually, it's quite selfish of me, because it makes me feel good. Creating connections makes me feel good!
I like to think of it as a win-win - like the chocolates!
Now...your life, your version, your plan...
Is there an area of your life (or work) where you feel a little disconnected or uncomfortable?
What is one thing that you could do to 'warm up' the situation and/or create a conversation starter?
Is there an area in your life (or work) where you notice someone else is a wee bit in the margin?
What is one thing that you could do to help bring them into your 'pod' and make them feel welcome? More about pods here
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It's no fun to be in the margin, no matter what age you are. It sure is nice when you feel included and it is nice to include someone else.
Creating connections, it's just one more way to live Your Life, Unlimited! Steph
PS - PODCAST ALERT!! It was such a delight to be a guest and engage in a positive, candid discussion with master communicator David Gouthro on his new podcast, Discover Fresh Perspectives! He is one of the most genuine humans I know and I feel like he was born to do this show - have a listen and grab a takeaway or two! Listen or watch here!
And some random fun street art for your amusement!
