Have you ever found yourself alone and wanting to find people who will inspire, encourage, and support you, but you just don’t know HOW to expand your circle? 
Where does one begin? How do you just “find” people? What if they don’t like me?
What happens next?

I’ve been there, the inner struggle and discussion of all the “what ifs”. The living in fear and afraid to step out and not allowing myself to really be free and true to myself. The fear of wondering what or even how to be someone I didn’t even know. I wanted to really become who I am meant to be, but was fearful of how to do so or who I truly am. What happens if who I really am, is different from what my current friends what or need from me?

When I decided to step out and expand my circle, that was one of the scariest, most vulnerable times for me. I decided to go to my public library and find a book club that was starting and jump in. I decided to download an app to my phone that alerts me to all the local events for subjects and networking groups that stimulated my interest. I have had the opportunity to attend some of these groups. Yes, I was scared because I didn’t know anyone else that would be attending, or didn’t know if I would. Once I got there, I was able to really find out what these events are about. It gave me the opportunity to really find out if these groups fit my areas of development and need. Some did, some didn’t. 

If, at first, you don’t feel comfortable making bigger steps, don’t. May I suggest opening your home and inviting 3-5 of your current circle over and then giving them an “assignment” that they are only invited as long as they bring a guest that you do not already know. Do not set and agenda, just sit and get to know each other. It may be a little awkward at first, but as time goes on, you will all get into the groove and may even develop friendships with others that you never imagined. These might even become your friends that you never would have met had you not expanded your circle. 

Stepping out isn’t always an easy task. Sometimes fear can actually cripple us. When these times hit, we must stop, breathe deep, and really ask ourselves why we are afraid to expand our circle. What’s holding you back? What are you allowing to hold you in the past? Release this fear and embrace the new, fear-facing, overcoming self, that you are created to be!