By Vicky Oliver
Eons ago, long before the invention of Facebook and Match.com, our ancestors grappled with social conundrums. Before Twitter sent out its first tweet, or anyone had heard of an RSS feed, our forebears asked themselves questions. Namely, how does one overcome social alienation, win friends, and build a richly rewarding social life?
Consider these three social, relationship advice gems that have withstood the test of time. Their insights may help form the foundation of a richly rewarding social calendar that leads to new opportunities for success:
1. “Early to bed and early to rise makes a man healthy, wealthy and wise:” Benjamin Franklin noticed in the late 18th century that good sleeping habits made him feel better and think more clearly. If our overextended, hectic lives leave us too sleep-deprived and grouchy to pursue a rewarding social life, it’s time we take Ben’s advice. Shut off the computer in favor of shut-eye. Friends and business associates will enjoy their interactions with us more, which may lead to more opportunities.
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2. “A rolling stone gathers no moss:” What Latin writer Syrus, circa 100 BC, may have foreshadowed regarding our 21st century lifestyle is that many of us move too fast (“rolling”) to gather much moss (“a social life”). Think about places where we fritter away our time, such as planes, trains, and automobiles. Then, make a point of engaging fellow travelers in conversation. These individuals may have access to all sorts of insider tips, connections, and other perks that will make the road well traveled more interesting.
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3. “Birds of a feather flock together:” To find our flock, it’s often helpful to turn solitary activities into social opportunities. Those who like running or painting might use www.meetup.com to find a running buddy or an artist’s colony, writers may consider organizing a monthly writers group, and divorcees can create support groups. Forming groups over shared activities helps us break out of our individual silos and find like-minded individuals.
Vicky Oliver is a leading career development expert and the multi-best-selling author of five books, including her newest, Live Like a Millionaire (Without Having to Be One) (Skyhorse, 2015). She is a sought-after speaker and seminar presenter and a popular media source, having made over 700 appearances in broadcast, print, and online outlets. For more information, visit vickyoliver.com.
