Are You Hiding Behind a Mask at Networking Events? I Was.

I've often said that the most challenging thing for me is to enter a room full of hundreds of strangers and be told to mingle!

Networking events have been a challenge for me. I make small but deep connections, and these happen naturally. Networking events felt like an unnatural setup, and I avoided them as much as possible. This wasn't too difficult until I became an entrepreneur, which required me to meet many new people.

I wanted to improve at this and feel better about networking, so I discussed it with my coach. I was ready to push the boundaries of my comfort zone. Initially, I was looking for tactics on how to appear more likable. However, my coach led me to explore deeper issues.

Many people have told to me I'm too serious and need to lighten up. So I would put on a mask of being a lighter person when I entered networking events. When a conversation didn't go well and I felt like the other person didn't find me interesting, I felt rejected. It reminded me of being a child, not allowed to join a group of friends. I also felt shame. They didn't like me. There was something wrong with me. I was surprised by how these old emotions, which I had almost forgotten, still impacted me.

I am now ready to drop my mask even at networking events, to be my true self, even if that means I come across as a little too serious or boring to some people. I'm open to who I am, knowing I am safe now. If someone doesn't find me interesting, we are just not meant to be, that's all.

We all carry baggages. It shows up in unexpected areas and hold us back. The first step to getting rid of this baggage is being aware that we have it.

Reflecting on your own experiences, where do you notice resistance in pursuing the things you truly want? How do you think this affects your path forward?