This week on Episode #114 of the Habit Thrive Podcast, we are diving into some social interaction … with a twist.😉

A habit-related twist, of course!

But first, let me ask you: Where are you with being social at this time of your life?🤔

😦Does the thought of attending a large gathering of strangers make you anxious?

😄Are you excited to interact with Facebook group members about a shared interest?

😬Are you feeling nervous to get together with some friends you haven’t seen in a while?

🤗Maybe you savor the time spent with your closest girlfriends for your weekly game night?

Any of these could be true - or all of them could be.

There’s no right or wrong way to be social, ☝️but recognizing your social habits and your feelings around social situations can help you turn these scenarios into rewarding experiences.

First, understand that being social can actually be a habit.

That girls’ game night I mentioned before is a habit.

A weekly yoga🧘‍♀️ class is a habit.

Your standing golf games, church service⛪, and even grocery-store outings are all habits.

All of these things can be put in your calendar🗓️ on repeat, and you get int the habit of attending each event.

Planning and scheduling these social situations helps bring a balance⚖️ to your life - social interaction sprinkled among self-care time and other responsibilities.

Second, plan your social interaction based on your senses.

Imagine attending a play with some friends, taking your seat at the back of the theater, and realizing you forgot your glasses.👓

Or trying to have a conversation with someone in a loud party when you are hard of hearing.🦻

Or being at the house of a friend or family member who keeps candles🕯️ lit and essential oils flowing when you are sensitive to smells.

Plan ahead to counter these challenges; even if it means gracefully bowing out🙏 of an invitation.

And, third, know your mindset.

For some of us, it may feel “wrong” or “rude” to opt out of a social gathering or event when we receive an invite.😕

But it’s important to know what your mindset is and where your limitations are in any given situation.

And remember that it’s OK👌 to feel apprehensive about a social situation … and you don’t have to defend your decision!

So challenge yourself to be more social when you can.

And feel free to speak your mind🧠 when you can’t.

A social life balanced with self-care is an incredibly rewarding thing!

Lorrie xoxox

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Website: lorriemickelson.com

Habits, Mindfulness Routines & Self Care For Women 50 & Beyond