I just discovered Meetup.com, which is a super cool website you can browse to meet new people in your area who have similar interests.
There are oodles of groups on there for every interest. There are wine tasting groups, hiking groups, book clubs, crafting groups, and so much more.
The best part is that you can read reviews about groups and post reviews about the groups that you try, so you know you’re not meeting up with a bunch of creepers.
I have realized recently that there are some things I really miss about myself. I have great friends, and I love my husband to death, but there are some things I really enjoy that none of my friends or my husband really enjoy.
So over the years, I’ve kind of given those things up. And I miss them.
One thing I really enjoy that many of my friends don’t is reading non-fiction. I still enjoy fiction, but some fiction books that enthrall the masses bore me to death. Because I want to read about REAL things and REAL people who have REAL struggles to overcome (or who have already overcome real struggles). I think the reason I chose to pursue a journalism degree in college is because I think real stories are the most interesting stories. I’m also a complete nerd for memoirs. Many of those stories are inspiring to me. Because if someone else in the real world did it, so can I.
So, as luck would have it, there is a Non-Fiction Book Club in my area! I have joined that group, but they haven’t had a meetup yet that I could attend. I am looking forward to the next Meetup, where we will discuss the book I Am Malala: The Girl Who Stood Up for Education and Was Shot by the Taliban.
I also joined a local women writers group. I have a few friends who write, but not many. And it’s been years since I’ve gotten together with other writers to work on my craft. Even though it gave me a panic attack, I attended one writers Meetup and it was great! We were given a few writing prompts and I went to town on a couple of them and came away from it with some good stuff (maybe I’ll share it with you later!).
I also love to try new things. I am joyful when I have new, exciting experiences, meet new people, and learn new things (this is why I love to travel). I have also joined a group of people in my area to try new things in the area- like new restaurants, bars, landmarks, etc. I can’t wait to attend some of those Meetups.
So I’m proud that I overcame my shyness and anxiety to meet new people and pursue the things I enjoy doing. I am looking forward to trying new things and forming new friendships!