Written in July 2022
A few weeks ago I went to a party.
I didn’t know anyone and felt like a complete outsider. How was I supposed to walk up and join two strangers’ conversations??
Eventually, I built up the confidence to chat…it didn’t go well. The conversation felt forced & boring - a classic exchange of the basic facts of our lives. I left the party early (and defeated).
But other times, it feels the complete opposite! Conversation quickly starts flowing; we go beneath surface level facts; and I learn how they think. I usually leave late (and energize).
What makes these conversations so different??
I’ve thought about it a lot and think I’ve found the secret sauce…
You can talk to anyone if you use the Tiny Universe Mindset. Let me explain:
Every person is like a tiny universe.
That universe has its own set of beliefs, histories, heartbreaks, wins, losses, & interests that you’ve never gotten to experience.
When you talk to people, you have the opportunity to get a sneak peak into their universe.
You get to learn their stories, discover their passions, & hear their beliefs. By asking the right questions & opening up, you can explore another universe while expanding your own.
Isn’t that amazing?
Rather than being like, “fuck I have to put in a bunch of effort and hope that I make a new friend.”
It’s like “damn, I have the chance to experience a completely different universe from the one I’m currently living. I get to view the world from a completely different lens.”
Of course, you may not like or agree with that lens. But nonetheless, it gives you the opportunity to develop compassion and understanding for why some people behave and act the way they do.
The Tiny Universe Mindset turns conversations from intimidating to exciting. From forced to spontaneous. And it opens the door to the authentic experiences that will make you feel alive.