things i've learned: tips on meeting new people

We are boarding a plane and leaving for ALT Summit today!! Woohoo! I am so excited about being in New York City, attending the conference, meeting new people, and spending time with Savannah. Although I'm an extrovert, I still get a little nervous when going to big events like this. It's intimidating (and exhausting!) to meet a bunch of new people in one day. There's a pressure to connect immediately, to seem like a normal human being (which can be extra difficult if you're nervous), and to do this with as many people as you possibly can. So, I thought it would be appropriate to talk about tips on meeting new faces.

BE OPTIMISTIC

I know that especially for the introverts out there, it can be difficult to even think about this topic let alone actually do it. But, I believe that success starts way before you actually ever take any action - it starts in your head beforehand. Picture yourself in whatever situation having a "successful" time - whatever that looks like. Maybe you're having a great time, laughing, meeting new people, and even walking away with some new friends to grab brunch the next day. Or maybe you successfully meet 2 new friends and establish a great business relationship before the event is over. Whatever success looks like to you, imagine yourself accomplishing it. This will help increase your optimism as well as your confidence. 

PUT YOURSELF OUT THERE

Although you may be at a business conference, try to take risks and have fun! Don't sit down by yourself. Sit by someone you don't know, introduce yourself to anyone you make eye contact with, and just for a little while, pretend like you've switched bodies for a day with that successful person you imagined earlier. Don't get me wrong, I'm not saying don't be yourself, all I'm saying is that sometimes the first step towards meeting someone new is to really go out of your way. Some of us who are more introverted would never meet anyone if we were just our normal selves. Making yourself step outside your comfort zone can prove to be a great thing - and may even benefit you in the long run!

WE ARE ALL CRAZY & WORTH IT

If you find yourself getting really nervous or suddenly not knowing at all what to say, just remember that everyone else is probably nervous, too. And, if that doesn't work, you can remind yourself that these relationships are worth it. At the end of the day, you're going to meet some incredible people. Savannah and I have met so many people at conferences and workshops that have ended up being great friends, inspirations, and even business relationships. So, it's worth it to go through the awkward phase to meet wonderful new friends!

Well, I hope you all have a great Wednesday! Be sure to leave your thoughts on meeting new people in the comments below. :)