This weeks motivation is inspired by my cute son who continually learns new skills and teaches me bravery.
Think back with me to your first day at a new school, first day of work, or any situation that is new and unfamiliar. Did your heart race a little? Did your stomach feel jumbled up and your voice shake when you spoke?
Last week Mr. N had a make up day at school. walking in was no big deal until he saw new faces. His hand went stiff in mine and he turned his sweet little head into the side of my leg. We sat outside talking until he felt confident again and had lots of hugs and kisses. As he was going back inside I told him, “New people = New friends”
On my drive home I contemplated his nervousness and my same feelings I have when I am in new situations the phrase I left him with kept repeating in my mind. New people = New friends. I said a little prayer that my Mr. N would make a new friend and feel comfortable.
As adults we are constantly in places where we can meet new people and make new friends. Do we take the opportunity to say hello to someone new? Give a compliment, ask a thoughtful question or give a smile?
Mr. N taught me a big lesson that day. He showed bravery to go into school, he took my advice and made a new friend and was all smiles when I picked him up. He was so excited to tell me that he made a new friend and preceded to tell me all about him.
I am challenging you to step out of your comfort zone and start a conversation with someone new. You can do this at the grocery store, park, school, work, church, doctors office or any public place. I heard this thought once and it really clicked with me. Someone you haven’t met yet is wondering what it would be like to know someone like you.
We each have powerful gifts and talents that can help us connect to others and feel like we belong all we need to do is say hello and ask a thoughtful question.
You never know what one conversation can lead to and the friendships that can be formed when you simply say hello and remember that New people = New friends.
Happy Monday!
Love,
Talesha
EXTRA TIP: Small talk conversation starters
(When you engage in small talk you are forming connections with people and gaining confidence in your conversation skills.)
I like to practice in church. There are always new faces and people I haven’t formed connections with. However, these can be tweeked for any social setting you are it. These are some of starters I use since I am likely to see them again.
1-How long have you been coming here?
2-Do you have family near by?
3-Do you know who is speaking/teaching today?
4-Have you met _________? They live near you. Let me introduce you.
5-What are your spouse/kids names? Hint…. Remember what they tell you
6-What are you looking forward to this week?
7-It’s really warm/cold today, Do you have any fun plans outside since it is?
8-If someone has a unique name or accent I like to ask where it came from.
9-So and so did really well with their lesson, what was your favorite part?
10-I really liked what you said in class about_____________ do you have any more information on that?
The sky is the limit. Have fun with it and ask follow up questions.