225
New to this group
Hi members! I'm grateful there's a group about relationships. I have struggled so long with being socially awkward. I have a degree in psychology and one in communications, and I love learning about people. But I'll be honest, I struggle still. I struggle with those surface conversations because I strive for connection and quality in people. I am more than happy to lend my experiences to others to help and I'm happy to receive any and all feedback from others.
Mary BrodieI help companies build customer relationships
257
10/25/20 at 1:44PM UTC
Hi Shawna! I would argue that you aren't socially awkward if you are first to post here. Awesome that you did that! I'm highly introverted, but that doesn't mean that I am socially awkward; I just don't really value too much chit-chat and perfer a more meaningful conversation. Nothing wrong with that. I think a challenge today with networking is that people don't know how to do it well. It's about relationships building, which only comes from building meaning with another person, which comes from more involved conversations. A few years ago, I woke up one day to a network that no longer served me because I grew professionally and personally (and keep growing). Most in the old network won't talk to me for various reasons (probably because I grew and they have no idea who this new person is). So I'm building a new one. It's HARD! Especially with COVID. But I try and I'm here :) So great to meet you :) One tip that works to sort out people: be yourself. If people don't like you, it's probably best they left. If they do, then welcome aboard :)
Shawna ClarkDEI warrior & lifelong learner
225
10/25/20 at 5:31PM UTC
Hi Mary. Thank you for the note. I appreciate your support, advice, and experience. You have a positive "Silver lining" perspective, which I admire. You're right, growing is hard, but I'm thankful to people like you and groups like this. I'm looking forward to keeping in touch!
Katrina McNairAssistant Director
3.56k
10/25/20 at 1:36AM UTC
Hello Shawna,
I know how you feel. I have been socially awkward most of my life as well. I know am able to claim it and use it to my advantage. I'm so thankful that I'm not like everyone else. I'm grateful that I'm different and I never followed the crowd. I listen and follow my own tune and beat. It has lead me to love being an educator at heart and the business field as well. It's really nice to meet you.
Sincerely,
Katrina
Shawna ClarkDEI warrior & lifelong learner
225
10/25/20 at 1:41AM UTC
Hi Katrina. Thank you for sharing a little bit about yourself. I admire your courage and authenticity.
Katrina McNairAssistant Director
3.56k
10/25/20 at 2:47PM UTC
Thank you so much Shawna.
