All the social software in the world don’t seem to drastically help those of us who are introverts at heart. We are the ones that grew up timid, shy kids who barely spoke to anyone we came upon. Our hearts would beat fast whenever it came to talking to someone new, or when it came time to speak in front of the classroom. We around walked with our heads down to avoid the chance that someone might want to talk to us.
We are geeks. Hear us squeak.
Granted, I have become a lot more assertive as I grew older, enough to get by in the world socially and professionally. But, for the most part, I still maintain my nature of keeping to myself. Sure, I go out, I socialize a bit… but then at the end of the day, I go home and that’s pretty much the end of it. Nothing further.
And don’t get me wrong, I love all the gatherings I’ve been going to lately!
In a discussion with MJ not too long ago, it was pointed out that many of us seem to have tons of acquaintances and not enough friends. We try so hard to keep up with all the acquaintances that we meet through work, friends of friends, social events, sports, concerts, common interests, etc., that we don’t have the time or energy to maintain a real friendship amongst the craziness. The cliché “things to do, people to see” becomes an everyday mantra.
Not to say that I’m the party girl or the social butterfly, but the internet has definitely increased my circle of friends and acquaintances. It’s certainly no chore, but it’s definitely time consuming to keep up with everyone IRL and OL, as Nicole has pointed out. We socialize, but in different contexts, let it be at the coffee shop or on IRC, at a party or through blogs. Either way, it takes time and effort.
So, what’s my point? I think we all have increased our social circles via acquaintances, but in turn, have neglected to maintain friendships.
A funny thing I have noticed is that there is a common sentiment that we do not seem to know when it’s appropriate to just call someone up and say “Hi” or ask them out for coffee, or to just hang out.
Consider this an open invitation. I’m serious. If I know you (IRL) and we haven’t seen each other in a while, I ask you to call me, e-mail me, whatever. Let’s go for an iced latte or go to the movies. Let’s get to know each other better.
We need to hook up briefly in SF later this month.
*sigh*
So little time in SF with so much I want to do and people to see.
At least this time I get to be touristy for the second time ever and go to Napa/Sonoma.
Maybe you’ll be free on Saturday the 25th?
I know Matt wants to meet you.