PUSHING MYSELF OUT MY COMFORT ZONE
I love meeting new people. I’m a confident woman who thrives in 1:1 conversations—listening to someone’s story and truly connecting with them lights me up. But here’s something not everyone knows about me: group settings aren’t really my thing. I’ve never been the loudest in the room, and having to raise my ‘delicate’ voice to be heard in a crowd can leave me feeling drained and disconnected.
Plot twist: this week, New York is buzzing with music industry events, and I’m throwing myself into them. In fact on Monday, I stepped way outside of my comfort zone, attending a networking event ALL BY MYSELF.
So what happened to this woman who prefers to stay on the edges?
Well, I actually left with a handful of new connections and had a great time.
The best part? I didn’t have to change my desire to stay on the sidelines. I stayed true to myself and still found connection.
How did I do that? Here are my top 3 tips:
1. Stick to your comfort zone: I stayed on the edges of the room, which kept my nervous system in check. Knowing I could step out to the hallway if I needed to made all the difference.
2. Seek 1:1 conversations: Instead of opting to break into groups, I focused on meaningful, one-on-one chats. It felt more natural and allowed for deeper connections—plus, as a coach, these kinds of 1:1 authentic conversations are what I enjoy.
3. Set a time limit: I gave myself a clear timeframe for how long I’d stay. Having that boundary in place made it easier to relax, and I ended up extending my time because I was enjoying myself!
Maybe you can relate. Not everyone enjoys loud, crowded spaces, and that’s okay. It’s all about showing up in a way that feels authentic to you. If you’re attending a group event this week, try these tips and see how they work for you.
And if you’ve ever found yourself on the edge of the room, wanting real connection but feeling drained by the noise—know you’re not alone. I’m right there with you, navigating this space in my own way.
Remember, sometimes the most powerful connections happen quietly, when we stay true to who we are.
What’s your comfort level when it comes to big groups?
