This week, I’m in Dallas, TX at the August Capella University Colloquium. This is my final residency for my Psychology PhD program, and collquium is a great time to get re-energized, learn some great new things, and exchange ideas with new people.
For me, that’s where the problem can often set in.
I’m not a naturally social guy. With small groups or close friends, I can interact well, but I’m still shy and not-so-good at the whole networking thing. The prospect of spending a week with a few thousand folks is something I admit that I don’t always relish.
Here’s the rub: Failing to network and meet new people could put my future goals at risk, and is therefore unacceptable.
Hmmm. What’s a shy guy to do? I can’t simply not be a bit on the shy side. It wouldn’t be terribly helpful to just pretend that I’m naturally gregarious. Still, I need to do a better job of opening up and meeting some new folks. Sharing ideas, stories, support, business cards, and a meal or two may really help me today and tomorrow.
I decided to give myself a constructive personal challenge. My micro-goal is to have substantive conversations with three new people every day I’m here. It’s a manageable goal, and it still moves me in the right direction. (Just not too far all at once.)
I’m happy to report that today (Day 1) I’ve already achieved my goal. (And it’s not even 1:30PM yet!) I made it a point to introduce myself to some new folks and interact with them about their research topics. I chatted up folks from the Business school and Health and Human Services. I met a Psych student, and even got him excited about the growing potential of coaching for his target population. (Hooray me!)
I’m not about to make excuses for myself, and I won’t be the life of the party any time soon, but I’m glad that a micro-goal has helped me come out of my shell just a teeny bit. The name of the game is personal improvement, and that’s a mission I can gladly accept.
Can you think of a recent situation where a micro-goal was helpful in your life? If not, can you think of some personal aspiration that could be served by a micro-goal? Don’t bogart the good stuff, let us know about it below!