“If you look at the people in your circle, and don’t get inspired, then you don’t have a circle, you have a cage.”
It’s a sign, you need new friends. Making friends as a child is tough, but as an adult – it’s even harder. But it’s not enough to just “have friends”, you need to make sure your friends are on your level and inspire you to go higher! Here are a few things you can do to push yourself into social situations, with people who will inspire you to reach new heights.
Love From A Distance
In order to attract the type of friends you need and now want you will have to detox from the relationships that aren’t harboring good energy and inspiration. The right friends will be detoured from you if you are surrounding yourself with individuals that aren’t of the same mindset and maturity level.
Don’t Be Afraid To Solo it!
I know it sounds weird, who wants to go somewhere alone? But, this is a moment for you to reflect…if you go to an event with your friends does it actually allow you to take the time to connect with others? Probably not, right?! This is what I like to call friend blocking. It’s similar to you not taking a date to speed dating. Sometimes you need to force yourself to talk to somebody you don’t already know.
If you’re into live music, make it a point to scope out local venues and catch a show. If you love to read, find a local bookstore and attend a reading by an author. If you love art, stroll into an art show. The great thing about this is, you know you will have something in common with the others at the event.
Slide-In Them DM’s
It’s time to put the Social back into Social Media. While Facebook may not be what it use to be, Instagram’s algorithm is always confusing and Twitter is slowly making a comeback, social media can still be a tool for finding and connecting with new friends. Stop just posting pictures for the likes, actually, spend time investigating groups and people who inspire you.
On Facebook specifically, find a group of like-minded users you can join. Also, don’t underestimate the power of LinkedIn! As corny as it sounds this is my personal favorite social platform. It is the premier hub for business professionals, you’re next business bestie could be on there – waiting on you!
Say Yes, To The Invitation
If you get invited to coffee or lunch, just say yes, period. Don’t make excuses for why you can’t go. If you want to get out of the “cage” of friends you have, accepting the invitation is the first steps. Just Do it, girl!
Don’t Beat Yourself Up
Building Friendships takes time. Don’t get discouraged if someone flakes on you, or the connection isn’t there. Keep putting yourself out there, and eventually, you’ll find someone who inspires you and enjoys co-working sessions and wine just as much as you! 😊 Just like with anything else these things take time and don’t happen overnight.
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Erika Pope, by day, is a Global Brand and Product Development Manager for five major brands within the beauty industry, including Aunt Jackie’s Curls and Coils. She is responsible for social media, public relations, new product manifestation, packaging, retail distribution and retention, and trade-show management.
By night, her focus is on empowering women. She is on a mission to uplift and create opportunity for minority women to win! She believes women who are empowered are not to be underestimated. “When women have the strength and the support needed they can achieve the unthinkable.” Erika, is ready to take her competitive, reliable and sassy attitude on the road to inspire women to be the boss of their life and make major Boss Moves, unapologetically.
Follow Erika @TheRealMrsPope and read more on my blog at www.ErikaPope.com
