“My three guiding rules of life. First, whenever possible, connect with others. Second, with enthusiasm, strive always to create fun and delight for others. And third, lean into each moment and encounter expecting magic – or miracles.”

Adam Robinson

Being an introvert, I dive deep into my own inner world. I love being alone to think, exploring ideas and my mind. It’s endlessly fascinating and energising to me. 

On the other hand, being in large groups and social settings drains me. It feels like it takes a lot of effort to show up and contribute in that way.

I have more recently realised that even though I may be introverted, I shouldn’t just use that as an excuse to avoid social situations and be a ‘homebody’.

It’s easy to slip away into our own little world, which is fine, but we miss out on a whole other world of possibility by not connecting with others.

Every now and then, I experience a moment of serendipity over a conversation with someone. The unexpected delight brings a sense of joy to my day.

Have you ever had that experience when you really can’t be bothered going to an event, but someone pushes you to go, so you go, and you end up having a wonderful time? You feel a sense of magic in the air. You think ‘wow, why was I so against this?’ I would have missed out on this fantastic experience and social connection.

Why wouldn’t we want to experience more of this?

With regards to the quote above, Adam Robinson (also an introvert) goes on to explain in Tim Ferriss’ book Tribe of Mentors:

“I now divide my life into two periods: pre-discovery of “others” and post-discovery. Now, I eagerly look forward to leaving home each day, wondering what magic I’ll create when encountering others, that I can scarcely contain myself. My days now have a natural rhythm between introversion and extroversion that is akin to breathing: when I am alone, inhaling my ideas, and then exhaling with others.”

Adam says it has been astonishing how many remarkable people and successes have come into his life since adopting this view. He notes how the universe has a funny way of giving back more to those who give to others.

I have also found this to be accurate. However, I still sometimes feel the constant battle to show up and make an effort. I am starting to realise that over time these chance encounters of wonder are warming me to the benefits of extroversion.

We can only go so far from our inner world. We need the support of others to achieve true greatness. 

Reflection

• Choose to connect with others.
• Bring enthusiasm to each encounter.
• Lean into each moment, expecting magic.