Doesn't it drive you crazy when you keep running into the same person everywhere you go? You make eye contact, you might even exchange smiles, but then that's it. You don't know them, but neither of you will be the first to speak up. What do you do? Just let them be a person that passes you by?
The thing that I can't really wrap my head around is that social media makes it nearly impossible for that mysterious person in your life to remain a mystery. They have the ability to easily look up one of your profiles and figure out things about you without even having to hold a conversation with you. It scares me to think that a simple "friend" or "follow" can replace actually making a bold move and talking to or showing interest in somebody.
Think about stories about how people met, your friends, your parents or even co-workers. None of the stories started a Tinder swipe, poke or follow. I believe that if you are genuinely interested in getting to know someone just be bold and talk to them. You are wasting precious time you could have to get to know them better.
I try to meet new people every day. Sure, there is that split second before I start up a conversation where I fear rejection, judgment or just get nervous. Once that split second is over I recognize that it is usually all built up in my head compared to the reality of the situation. I have really focused on creating this new initiative in my life on a daily basis this summer and have met more interesting people than I could have ever imagined.
Some of the conversations I have are simply small talk about the weather, sports and community events. However, there are always those rare conversations you'll have with someone who makes you think differently or will teach you something new. Every day you pass up talking to that person next to you in line, on the plane or walking through a store, you limit yourself in a world filled with so many opportunities.
Your life is a network. A network of people, places and experiences. All of these stem from conversations with people. Without communication, you are narrowing the amount of information you have access too. My internship this summer at Vero Beach Magazine has taught me the importance of being fearless when it comes to meeting new people and finding information. I have to make endless phone calls and meet with people to ensure I am getting correct information. In the process of doing so, I ended up learning more about myself and our local community. I am no longer afraid to speak up, which is something I want to bring back with me abroad and back to Elon in the winter.
I think if there is a person that you want to get to know or if you see someone in class that you don't know, just talk to them. Everyone likes meeting new people and you never know, but the person you might have passed up a conversation with could end up playing a big role in your future.
