I attended the Australian Breastfeeding Association Regional Workshop this morning and during the tea break, I found myself going off to the bathroom because I didn't know a single person there. When I returned, I literally stood and looked around for an individual, pair or group that I could start a conversation with but they were all already DEEP in funny conversations. I didn't have my conversation starter (aka Aaron) with me. I didn't want to seem anti social by sitting down. So I just....STOOD.
I knew that this was a workshop for breastfeeding counsellors and community educators that have known each other for some time but I still wanted to go because I am interested in the topics. (And, I hope to be some sort of counsellor/educator in the future)
In a previous life, I never encountered this problem. I wasn't a power mingler but I've never had to stand around awkwardly trying to fit in. There has always been a nagging fear in the back of my mind that I would become stupid or lose touch with the outside world after leaving my regular job for self employment (and now mommyhood) where I spend so much time home alone.
Was today the first sign that my worst fears are coming true? I don't like to think so since the local ABA meeting I went to was fine. But I really do need to find ways to 'get out more'. Its easy here in Brisbane but Palembang is a whole different story.
I'm still kicking myself for not being more 'out there' and trying harder to make some conversation.
5 comments:
dont worry it must be just this specific meeting. it happens to us all from time to time (awkward mingling).
i tagged you in my latest post btw :)
I must admit, I've never been too good at mingling.
I tend to be a little shy in new groups, but it always helps if you have something in common with the others (which you do with the breastfeeding group). Because I read so much, I'm a fountain of useless trivia which is handy for breaking the ice and starting conversations with small talk. I don't think you'll have a lasting problem...don't worry about it.
Amanda,
It's hard for me to imagine that a woman that shares as easily as you do in writing would have trouble in person. It is always a little awkward in groups where you don't know anybody--but you do have something in common.
I love Bilbo's comment about the fountain of useless trivia. I think we must be long lost brothers from different parents. (I know my parents are different!)
I'm more determined than ever to improve my ice breaker mingling skills. Once I get IN the conversation I'm fine....its just the start of things.
I think I need to develop a little trivia fountain myself :)
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