What are your values, interests, ethics, wants, needs?
What do you want in a partner, friend, relationship?
What if you don't know?
Resources: MBTI, therapy

Know your personal cues that cause you to isolate or withdraw---fear, shame, thoughts of unworthiness or inadequacy

Benefits of smiling:
Builds trust
Makes you more attractive--draws people to you
Improves your mood --releases endophins
reduces stress
reduces pain
it's contagious---

meaningful activities, social justice

“It’s Weakness”
How has this myth kept you distant from your friends?
Sometimes we think not being vulnerable keeps us safe, but usually it only keeps us alone and lonely.
“The most accurate measure of courage is to let ourselves be seen.”
I don’t do vulnerability”
We like to feel in control...and you are....do you like the results?
We take risks, face uncertainty and are emotionally exposed every day
I can do it alone/independently.”
Maybe, but you’ve probably had to shut down parts of yourself
It may feel safe, but you’re probably not happy

Start with an introduction:
Hi, My name is _________.

Make a goal to meet one new person a day/week etc.

People will be drawn to you by what you share in a group.

Ask a question.
Ex: What is your favorite way to spend a Saturday/Sunday afternoon?
What dream vacation have you not yet taken or what has been your best vacation and what was important about it?

Why did you take this class? What do you hope it's like?

Share a positive experience or story

Research: only need one or a few close, intimate friends who will listen to you.

Team building, students more likely to come to class if they feel like they have a connection to someone there.

Share your passion, whatever you're teaching, you teach for reasons that matter to you. Share those reasons and share that passion. You will build engagement, enthusiasm, and discussion.

Ask meaningful questions and incorporate personal experience if possible.

Thank students for sharing and reinforce their efforts; it will make it more safe for others to participate if they feel they will get a positive response. Students can "get to know one another" by the comments they make in classroom discussions.

Refer students to events that afford them opportunities to have meaningful interactions with other students, staff and faculty. Give extra credit for events you feel will enhance your students' retention and engagement with the campus.
Events on campus: Speed-Friending, Book Club, meditation.