It’s so easy to fall into the slump of a 3-day weekend, a holiday break, a summer break, PTO, etc. We get a little time to ourselves and we collapse. We do whatever feels right, whether that’s packing a bag, catching up with friends, or taking some time for ourselves.
Then when it’s time to get going again, when Tuesday rolls around, it feels like trying to start up a car with a dead battery. You keep turning the key, but the engine won’t quite turn over. So what’s the secret? People. I have to generate energy and I do that through connecting with people. I’m an introvert, so at some point interacting with people becomes draining, but connecting with people drives me. It drives us.
Coming off my break, I knew what I needed, but wasn’t sure how to make the connections authentically. I ended up connecting with a woman who’s story gave me just what I was looking for.
Back Story: Growing up, I played piano for about 4-5 years through elementary and middle school. I loved the instrument, but strongly disliked my piano teacher and the family pressure to play. I’ve toyed with the idea of picking back up the keyboard, but haven’t found a way back in. It’s a combination of nerves and finding a piano teacher.
Story: So I met this woman because I booked her for a service and small talk came naturally to break up the silence. I came to learn that this woman is a 21 year old, entrepreneur and student. She has a twin sister, and they’ve both been playing piano since they were 4 years old. Through talent and hard work, this woman has made a lane for herself through her business (of 2 years) and as an organist. Through more talking, I came to learn that she has two younger siblings, also a set of twins, who both play the piano and the saxophone. I immediately was a fan. To be so comfortable exploring your gifts, yet not limiting yourself to them was…. impressive.
What I took from it: First, what class did I skip in high school??? Because I definitely wasn’t taught this. This woman and I were only 5 years apart in age, yet it was so clear to see how much of a difference it made. I was taught to explore hobbies, but keep work and hobbies separate. Work was your Plan A and Plan B. Hobbies aren’t work, they’re things you do for fun, IF time allows. She was taught, explore hobbies, trust your instincts, and make a lane for yourself wherever you want. Make a Plan A1 and a Plan A2. Hell, just go for it. The best part about this connection was: I wasn't discouraged. I was inspired. Here I was, just hoping to get my hair done and now I’m taking notes from a 21-year old.
Travel Tip #11: There is nothing you can’t have, it’s never too late.
Sure, we all know entrepreneurs, so what’s the difference here? The connection. I got to know more of her story and it resonated with me. Everyone’s story won’t resonate with you, but someone’s will. Just as your story won’t resonate with everyone, but it will resonate with someone. I have a keyboard that I was gifted almost 2 years ago. I’ve told myself that it’s too late to pick it back up. I can now confirm that is a bold ass lie.
Travel Tip #12: Connect with people.
I started September wanting to reestablish a work routine centering self-improvement and self-care. I had no plan for how I was going to do that, however, I do know nothing is possible without people. So I focused on being open and present in the moment, especially with people. This is how I got my car started again. I share this to encourage you to share more and connect more. You have plenty to give and the world has plenty it wants to give you. All you have to do is give and receive openly, expecting nothing. This week, connect with someone you don’t know. Listen and ask questions about their story. Share your story. If you’re usually a listener, try sharing this time. If you’re usually a talker, try listening this time. This is how we grow.
Don’t wait… start now,
Mai
Disclaimer: I am NOT saying to be open to everything and everyone. Use your own judgement.