One day, in my previous job, they decided it was time for seat changes and I gained a few new co-workers in my area. I’d been on my job for a while and a lot of people I knew in the beginning were no longer there for one reason or another.
I knew more people when I started because I took my initial training class with them. I’m pretty friendly, but with the gradual loss of people that I knew in the beginning, the number of acquaintances I had started to decrease.
After the seat changes, I had a new person sitting across from me and the opportunity to expand my network. I introduced myself and I asked how she liked her new space. She turned out to be really friendly and happily waived to me every day.
It felt really good to make a new friend and I know that I would have more time to get to know her. It helped improve my sense of wellbeing at work. I also started speaking to another person I hadn’t talked to before.
My point is, I know that getting to know new people may come naturally for some, but many of us have to put effort into opening ourselves up in order to increase our circle. Honestly, it’s really easy to stay in your own bubble. Most people go about their day only engaging with the people they already know or they exist in relative isolation.
Today, my goal is to simply encourage you to make the effort to meet someone new.
Take the first step. It’s worthwhile and it’s easier than you think.
A simple “How’s your day going?” can get you started. Try to find common ground – even if it’s just about the weather. Compliment them. Ask them about themselves and be genuinely interested in what they have to say.
You can work on expanding your circle anywhere. Try introducing yourself to a neighbor you’ve never spoken to. Or ask the person who waits on you every day how they are doing.
By starting conversations, you can start to build connections that benefit you in many ways. You might find that you have some common interests or just feel good about befriending another person.
Give it a try, especially if you’re not the outgoing type. It can totally be worth it! You might just gain a new friend today.