Take the Challenge: Walk Unplugged
I love a good walk. It is my stress reliever and source of energy. I pop in my AirPods and head out the door. I call my mom or a friend, turn on my favorite music, or listen to a podcast. Even when I am trying to decompress, I am multitasking.
However, one Sunday morning, my phone battery was way too low to tune out the world. No music—No way! I honestly contemplated not going. But the weather was perfect. So, I headed out and tuned in to ME.
Settle In
I’m not going to lie. I was a little uncomfortable. My mind swirled with thoughts. The rapid-fire of ideas and words was a little overwhelming at first. Then I embraced it and realized the creative juices were flowing. I let my brain sift through ideas, writing in my head. In fact, embracing the brain buzz and settling into my thoughts allowed me to slow down the idea generation and create more focus.
Look Around
As I continued through the neighborhood, I then turned my attention to my surroundings. I decided to focus on nature instead. I was amazed at the sounds—the birds chirping and the wind rustling the leaves. I was really listening and taking in everything around me. The temperature was lovely, and the breeze felt soft. I thought about how so many of us move through the world and take these simple pleasures for granted.
Engage
Then I turned my attention to the people passing by. My pace and space allowed me to observe those approaching: walkers, runners, couples, families, and lots of dogs. I decided Sunday morning presented a great opportunity to see the best dogs in the neighborhood. Now, I started to comment and interact with the passersby—from hi, hello, and enjoy your day to can I pet your dog, what kind of dog, how old, and on and on. The perfect networking exercise! I was practicing what we preach: a way for people to make networking a less intimidating experience.
For me, it is not about being intimidated by networking. It is recognizing that sometimes we walk the world closed off. You know what I mean: avoiding eye contact or keeping to yourself as you go through the motions of your daily routine. You are not in work mode, so why think about networking?
Remain Open to Possibilities
Walking unplugged reminded me of the importance of remaining open to possibilities. When you listen, look, and engage with the world around you, interesting doors or opportunities may open. You never know who lives just around the corner.
Does this mean I am never going to plug in and go? No. But I will be more intentional about unplugging more regularly, so I can think clearly and connect with the neighborhood—or at least hit pause more frequently.
Take your next walk unplugged and let us know what it uncovers about The Brand of You and what you learn about your neighborhood.