Smile, nod, laugh, cue fake enthusiasm…check the time to see how much longer I have to deal with the fugaziness…aaaaand repeat.
I’ve always dreaded any sort of networking event. Having to put my face on and pretending to be passionate about whatever I was there for on behalf of whichever company I was working for at the time.
To the point where I started describing myself as antisocial and believing it.
Recently, I realized I only disliked not feeling like I could show up as my true self in these spaces I didn’t care to be in. I never went to a networking event by choice – until earlier this year.
We Outside
Inspired by wanting to explore the city through food and to create more content, I started keeping up with restaurants and events. Back in April, I bought a ticket for an event at Crust by Mack. I’d been wanting to try their crab pies, so why not?? (video recap at the bottom) While there, I got to meet the owner Amanda, and Baltimore’s big food personality Chyno (@thebaltimorefoodie).
I stuffed my face with food then introduced myself to both of them before I left. Little did I know, this would tigger a summer full of invitations to restaurant openings and menu tastings (most of them hosted by Chyno).
I have met SOOO many fellow foodies at these events. I’ve enjoyed meals with the same people who I followed on social media when I first moved to Baltimore as I was learning about what the food scene had to offer. It’s crazy how I naturally turn into a Chatty Cathy in these spaces! It’s been amazing building community and having these events to look forward to.
What’s the Secret?
All that to say, I reflected on how easy it is to show up when you actually want to be somewhere. I’m not antisocial – I just feel a different energy when I choose to be in a room vs when I’m forced into it.
To top if off, I’ve had 3 people randomly reach out to me for advice. It’s wild. I’m just doing what I enjoy, sharing it online, and now people are asking how to get where I am. I’m honored to be in a position to give tips and tricks, and I’m just so happy to be here.
It seems obvious but doing something you love, with purpose, is life changing. Sure, many of us have to strike a balance of what we have to do with what we want to do, but for a while I was only doing what I had to.
I know there’s many other folks also floating through life without anything lighting their fire.
So if anything, I hope if you are that person that feels kinda blah about your day-to-day, this will inspire you to think about what you enjoy. Don’t think about what you can make money from. Think about what excites you and craft a plan to bring it into your routine. Explore all of the options and see where it takes you!
check out my crust by mack video mentioned earlier (IG // TikTok) 🦀🥧
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