Don’t Talk to Strangers.
Few weeks back I’ve discovered that my mind is little bit stuck. I was working with the same people every day, socialising with the same group of friends and, as much as I enjoy and adore all these people, I started feeling stuck in my way of thinking and doing things. As a result, I decided that it’s time to step out of the circle of people I know start talking to strangers. At least once a day.
Now… how do you approach strangers? Firstly, look around where you are. There are probably people in your own office whom you haven’t met yet – approach and introduce yourself. If you’re at home or out and about – you can always start chatting with your neighbours or the corner shop owner. Your hairdresser, taxi driver, receptionist, anyone really… You never know who you could meet and everyone has got an interesting story to share. There are also plenty of networking events you could go to, check out Eventbrite or Meetup.com to find a group of your liking. Having closer relationships with people in your society, as well as being part of interest groups or associations is what makes Danes the happiest nation on Earth after all. Worth trying!
Secondly – there are plenty of strangers out there on the internet. The benefit here is you can ‘screen’ them in the comfort of your own sofa while you browse through their social media profiles. I’m sure there are people who inspire you and you wish you could just talk to them and ask few questions. I’m sure there are people who’ve done things you would like to do in your career and life. People with skills compatible to yours. People with businesses you’d like to work for. Reach out to them – introduce yourself, explain why you’d like to talk to them. Most likely they wouldn’t mind spending half an hour on a call or Skype with you; or if you’re nearby, maybe you could even meet for a coffee? Some won’t respond at all, but it really doesn’t hurt to try.
So what have I achieved through approaching and talking with strangers? Well first of all – I have learnt loads, they suggested other people I should meet or places/resources I could learn more. Secondly, by providing different perspectives, they expand the way I think, which helps me to be more creative and more innovative. Most importantly – this way I have made some friends and met my mentors. Although, there’s still a long way till I meet and speak with all the people I want to, but I already feel more connected with my online network. I feel more inspired and motivated. I have a better clarity of where I want to go. Even today I had an ‘Eureka’ moment while speaking with one fascinating person I reached out to on LinkedIn – but that’s another story for another blog…
Me talking to strangers… 😉
It’s worth trying – forget what your mum told you about strangers and go, talk to them. Share your stories in comments.
Millennial Banter 