Make yourself uncomfortable.

Tips for meeting new people and making meaningful connections.

“Outside of your comfort zone is where the magic happens.” — Anonymous

Good friends share your joys, encourage you when you’re down and cheer you on toward your goals. In today’s world, you can “friend” someone or make a new connection with a quick and effortless click. But when it comes to connections that are truly meaningful, face-to-face is always best — even if it means stepping outside your comfort zone. Here are a few tips to help you make it happen:

Look close to home

We tend to make friends with people we cross paths with on a regular basis. The more we see someone, the more likely a connection can develop, so look closer at the places you already frequent for potential connections.

Look for common interests

Think about the things you like to do or the causes you care about. Where can you meet people who share the same interests, hobbies, or cultural background, or who have kids the same age as yours?

Be open to new experiences

Not everything you try will be successful, but you’ll learn along the way and hopefully have a little fun.

• Volunteer. Helping others and contributing to the greater good can be a rewarding way to meet new people and practice your social skills.
• Join a club. Book clubs, dinner clubs, even walking clubs abound. Or brush up on your athletic prowess and join an intramural sports team. Meetup.com is a good place to find a group in your area.
• Attend community events. Art gallery openings, lectures and music concerts are great places to meet new people and broaden your horizons along the way. Check your community calendar or local newspaper for events.
• Cheer on your team. Find out where fellow sports fans go to support your favorite team. Since you already have something in common, chatting it up should come easy.
• Unplug. Ditch the device while you’re in the checkout line or waiting in a public place. Making eye contact and exchanging small talk is great practice for making connections, and you never know where it might lead!

Personality matters

Most importantly, look for groups (and people) that project personality traits that mesh well with yours. Yes, groups, companies, businesses and clubs can embody personalities — in fact, we’ve taken some time here at Scentsy to think about our own personality.

Here’s what we came up with:

• We’re spirited. We live life with enthusiasm and determination, celebrating even the smallest moments.
• We’re embracing. We welcome everyone as they are, where they are — hot mess and all — with open arms and a friendly hug.
• We’re positive. We operate with a generous and optimistic outlook.
• We’re energetic. Our positive energy inspires and attracts others.
• We’re cultivating. We develop and nurture ourselves and others, always striving to give more than we take.
• We’re real. We are who we are, and we respect that in you.
• We’re fearless. We are brave and bold, and we welcome a challenge with a courageous spirit. (Even if it means embracing discomfort.)

If you’re already a part of the Scentsy family, you’ve hopefully seen our personality in action (#ScentsyLife). If you’re not, and we sound like someone you’d like to hang out with, now might be the perfect time to step outside your comfort zone and make a truly meaningful connection.