It seems like we’re all caught in this unfamiliar period of time where socializing with others seems more daunting than usual. After all, we did collectively experience a major life-altering event last year (I would remind you of what it is, but I’m sure you’re ready to stop thinking about unprecedented times as much as I am). But, with this major shift in life comes a certain rebirth. Many of us are assessing the relationships we have surrounding us, and, after so much time spent alone indoors, are craving some rejuvenating connections.
Even without a pandemic, there are times in each of our lives that warrant a major transitional period: whether that be moving to a new city, graduating from college, or starting a new job. Each of these experiences force us to leave our comfort zone and to take stock of the people we have by our side – and, those we would like to meet.
Here are three tips to keep in mind if you are looking to make meaningful connections after a life transition:
1. Build a Solid Relationship With Yourself
Now, I’m sure this isn’t the first thing you would think about when it comes to meeting new people. However, the relationship that you have with yourself is the most important – yet, most often neglected – relationship you can cultivate. When you enjoy your own company, you remind yourself that you are whole, even in the midst of a busy and often stressful life change.
The best way to build a positive relationship with yourself is to set aside time to do something by yourself that you enjoy. For me, that is walking – I know that whenever I’m taking a long walk outside, I have a concentrated time to think, listen to music, and enjoy the sights that pass me by. Other types of activities that you can pursue are exercising, meditating, journaling, or cooking. When you get into the habit of taking that time to do something nice for yourself and by yourself, the relationships you develop with others will only become stronger and easier to create.
2. Reflect On and Keep Contact With Your Existing Network
Chances are that you’ve cultivated a support network throughout your life thus far – whether that be your family, friends from different parts of your life, or even colleagues or mentors from work or school. It may seem counterintuitive to consider your existing network in the pursuit of making new connections, but it is actually quite the opposite. Focusing on the good relationships that you’ve already established shifts your mindset from what you need to gain to what you already have.
When you focus on how you created your existing network, it increases your confidence and sets you up to make additional connections in your new life situation. This process is comparable to that of manifestation. In Oprah Daily, Kimberly Zapata explains that you can manifest anything you desire by focusing on the things that create joy or happiness in your life already. By doing so, you increase your vibration and will therefore be able to attract even more meaningful connections in an authentic way.
3. Say “Yes” and Put Yourself out There
The final step in making meaningful connections can seem daunting at first, especially after a major life transition. However, by cultivating a strong relationship with yourself and your existing network, you set yourself up for success when it comes to actually getting out there and making new connections. The first two steps encourage you to be grateful for what you already have, so when it comes time to meet new people, you approach the process with feelings of expansion and not lack.
It may take some trial and error to meet genuine connections, but the best thing you can do is say “yes” to anything that you get invited to – especially if you’ve just moved somewhere new. It may feel overwhelming to be around a bunch of new people, but seeing the experience as an adventure can remove some of that pressure you may feel to meet new people. You may walk out of that gathering with a new friend, or simply a fun memory to look back on. If you make the effort to meet new people, you will eventually be rewarded. After all, it always pays off to step outside your comfort zone!
Some people you meet may become your best friends, while others will drift in and out of your life for a season of time. Either way, being vulnerable with others and getting to know people for who they really are is never a bad thing. Hearing the perspectives and worldview of others is one of the best gifts that life has to offer, and when we know who we are, we can more easily connect with others – and become even better than we were before as a result.
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