3 Simple Ways to Expand Your Social Network
It’s summer: time to tuck away the textbooks, drop down a gear, and soak up the sun. It’s the season for BBQ’s, trips to the beach and a chance to explore who we are. What better time then, than to expand your social network? The idea of networking can often seem like a mechanical or robotic chore, but it ultimately boils down to finding kindred spirits.
Fortunately, the easy-going nature of summer gives us all a great stepping stone to find those people we connect and share the same passions with. So why not give summer a purpose by using it to connect with people who will enhance your life’s passions?
So, what will you be doing this weekend? If you’re stomped for ideas, here are three simple ways to meet new people:
Take Up a New Hobby
For those of us in the midst of our studies, the summer gives us a shot at devoting time to other passions. So now that those hours in the library aren’t holding you back, ever wonder if you had a natural knack for the tango? Perhaps you’ve recently developed an interest in the martial arts or maybe the World Cup has got you pumped to hit the soccer fields. Hobbies are a great icebreaker and they also allow us to meet people from all walks of life. So whether it’s a passing fancy or something you want to take seriously, try something new and meet someone new.
Volunteer
Why not enrich your life by volunteering for a non-profit? Volunteering is an opportunity to find people who you share the same humanitarian passions with. Often we can form relationships based on more trivial things such as a favorite sports team or a comedy show. Why not use the summer to find someone who also believes no one should die of cancer? Or believes we need to make a greater effort to take care of the planet? Or who believes all children deserve the right to an education? Volunteering gives you the chance to get to know someone in a purpose driven setting that goes beyond just making some cash.
Strike up a conversation with a stranger
Perhaps a more exciting and bold option is to start chatting with a stranger. Why not kill time chatting while you wait for your connecting flight or while you pick up the groceries? You never know who you could meet! It might be someone who has found success in online marketing or maybe someone who’s had a rough time and can you give you a profound life lesson. This might seem like common sense, but it’s important to remember that everyone has lived a life up until now. We often forget that virtually everyone out there is a storehouse of life lessons and experience. Sometimes the most unexpected conversation can give us exactly what we need in times of hardship or success.
Whatever happens, make sure you’re having fun; networking should never be a chore because making friends and meeting people is one of life’s greatest and most fulfilling joys. The summers always come and go, so find people who won’t, in order to make your summer count. How do you expand your network? Do you have any tips about going outside of your comfort zone? Share in the comments section below or on our Facebook page!