On Going Out….

“The only things that are going to make your life different five year from now is the people you meet and the books you read”

I re-interrupt that a little to be the people you meet and the things you learn. With that as my frame of reference I have the following standing goals every year.

1.) Read 24 books – 12 Fiction 12 Non-Fiction (Learn)
2.) At Least 16 hours of formal training or classes (Learn)
3.) Go to 24 New Bars and Restaurants (Meet People)
4.) Go to @ least 1 concert - (Meet People)
5.) Go to @ least 1 play or show - (Meet People)
6.) Go to @ least one museum or art show - (Meet People)
7.) Go to @ least one social business related networking event (Meet people)
8.) Go to @ least 2 sporting events - (Meet People)
9.) Go to @ least one city outside Minnesota (Meet people)
10.) Every other year go to @ least one city outside of the US (Meet people)

I know some people might think these are weird goals but as someone who struggles with being an introvert I have a make a conscience effort to mix it up.

There are a lot of people I know who say it is a waste of money to go out. I look at it as an investment.
Here are the positive aspects as I see them
1.) New experiences keep your mind fresh
2.) You experience different venues (Which can come in handy in a variety of business situations)
3.) You build a variety of shared experiences that enable to more readily relate to different types of people
4.) You build comfort in a variety of different social situations.
5.) You learn to see the world in a different perspectives.
6.) You have a chance to interact with people that you can’t have on your couch.
7.) Life is more beautiful in 3-D
8.) You build better relationships not only with the people you bring but new relationships with the people you meet on the way.

So if you need a reason to loosen up on the purse strings and get out of the house try looking at how a night out can enrich your life instead of diminish your wallet and then go somewhere new. Smile, hold doors, say hello, and buy a round it will pay dividends in happiness I promise.