I've Been Downsized: Chapter 5

How Connected Are You?

When is the last time you hung out at that little coffee shop on Main Street? You know the one. You order coffee with names like “salted cupid” and kick back on a comfortable couch. Turns out, some pretty interesting people hang out there on Tuesdays at 10:00 a.m. Who knew?!

After spending 10 years in a series of global jobs, I’m enjoying the opportunity to reconnect with my local community. Don’t get me wrong. Having the opportunity to travel and work globally was pretty cool. I’ve been to Venice, Brussels, Munich and New York City. I have great friends in Shanghai, Tokyo and London. But I’m learning that you miss some great stuff happening right in front of you if you keep your eyes focused too far in the distance.

Now, if you’re not familiar with the small town coffee shop scene, you might assume that it works on the buddy system. You know? People don’t just hang out at a coffee shop alone, right? Wrong! Turns out, it’s quite an interesting way to meet new people and catch up on the local happenings. It also turns out that a “salted cupid” is quite delicious!

Free Cookies?!

This downsizing has been quite a learning experience for me. I’ve discovered a great coffee shop, met some fabulous people, and learned that if you time your visit just right, you’ll get a free cookie! You know the old saying, “nothing in life is free”? Well, they just weren’t hanging out in the right coffee shop.

Coffee, Anyone?

Since my first coffee shop visit, I’ve met a local theater director, a small business owner, a dean of international affairs, and a friendly coffee shop manager with free cookies. I’ve also been privileged to listen in on fascinating conversations. These chance meetings are part of the fun and add to the diversity of connections to be made. But, this has gotten my mental gears turning. I have so many local connections, but how many of them do I really know? There must be fascinating stories to be heard, lessons to be gleaned.

So, today begins my new coffee chat program. I’ll begin by reaching out to my local LinkedIn connections to invite them to join me for a “salted cupid” or two. If you’re in the Midland area, let me know. Regardless of where you are, I encourage you to focus just 10 minutes of your day making a local connection. Coffee, anyone?

Kristina Marsh is an experienced and accomplished marketing, communications, and business process specialist.  Want to connect?  You can reach me at klmarsh74@gmail.com.