Two months ago I was in a yoga class where I sensed a whole host of similarities with my other passion — social media; hence, Top Ten Reasons Why I Love Yoga and Social Media.
Today, ten days into my Puerto Vallarta vacation, I can see how Social Media is, indeed, so much like a Day at the Beach.
Conversations with new friends
Without a doubt, the Number One reason that comes to mind is the conversations with people outside my day-to-day routine. In fact, when people ask what I like most about my annual Mexican vacation, it is exactly that: Meeting so many new interesting people to share ideas and experiences with.
Listening to their stories
Of course, Listening is the First Rule to success in Business and every kind of relationship. So many times when we meet new people, we think the way to make a great impression is to “pontificate” about our own lives. But if you think about it, how much will YOU learn just talking about yourself? Plus, my experience is that people love those who really listen attentively. Way back when I started this blog early in 2009, I shared some of my business communication tips on How to Listen better.
Learning about the local activities and customs
Whether we are visting a place for the first time, returning after a long absence, or simply coming back to a favorite location, there are always new things to find out about:
- How to get around
- Where are the best deals
- What’s new and different
- What’s traditional and not-to-be-missed
Finding people to do things with
What’s better than meeting new friends and trying out the restaurant that everyone is talking about? It’s the SHARING that makes every experience richer and more powerful. I can’t help but be reminded of a great sharing opportunity for everyone with a blog — whether you are on the beach to day or, most likely, not. My fellow Baby Boomer social media evangelist Larry Brauner is inviting everyone with a blog to post it to his fan page: While you all start collaborating with Larry and our friends online tonight, I’ll be joining a bunch of friends — new and old — at the Barcelona tappas restaurant in PV.
Enjoying life
Personally, I’m enjoying my experiences learning everything I can about all of our marvelous ways to connect, but since I’m still on vacation in Mexico [and I don’t want to get sand in my computer], it’s Off To The Beach!
BUENOS DIAS, ALL!
Hi Bob, there used to be social media “buttons” on the bottom of the posts, but now there are just the words: Digg, Stumbleupon, etc.
Perhaps I ought to change back to buttons
🙂
I’ll check back with you again after I check out your site.
Thanks, though, for joining the convo.
🙂
Shari
I saw your comment on Kathie’s blog http://www.kmccom.info. I do some work on Kathie’s sites for her and followed her link to you.
On Sandy’s comment 2) Clothing is optional! (I couldn’t resist).
I like that and that is what I mean on my site http://www.worknatural.biz you can work any way you like.
One question for you though, I don’t find a Social Network button except the tweet button?
Bob Pearcy
Hi Shari, I’m new here, but listening is a skill I’ve been practicing for the last five years. And I feel as though I’ve been missing in action! Its amazing how much we learn when we just be quiet and listen. Thanks for the great blog. I’m glad I met you at Larry Brauners’ ‘party.’
Isn`t FUN!
Thanks for visiting. Relationships follow — and as Larry has made clear to me: The Real Success is in the Collaboration! See you again online. Shari
I post many of my photos on my Here in Highland Park blog. See the link in this comment. I’ve actually learned a lot about photography (which I use professionally for websites) by participating in what is called “photo memes.”
Sometimes connecting in a way that seems to be non-professional, like on the beach or on a personal blog, can end up being a rewarding business networking experience. We need both in our lives!
Here’s what my friend Sandy Davis wrote to me: _Loved_ the blog post about why social media is like a day at the beach. Here
are two more reasons why:
1) It’s a great place to get away from work for the afternoon.
2) Clothing is optional! (I couldn’t resist).
Love ya!
–Sandy
Hope your having a great time in Tahoe!
Actually, it’s Puerto Vallarta, James
🙂
From the grocery store to the post office, I carry a smile wherever I go. In this world you never know who you will meet, a warm smile can stir and enrich a powerful relationship. I currently work in the hospitality industry and realized that a simple conversation, recommendation or a even simple smile, opens a portal to new network. Where you can teach what you know, and learn what you dont already know. Relevating back to your blog Shari, Listening,is a key factor in life. Wherever we go, we are given the unlimited opportunity, day by day in which I will practice.
Nice words, wonderful sentiments. The world should listen.
🙂
I read through your listening post and through the comments, and I’m wondering if part of the problem is I get attracted to “pontificators” – people who have a lot to say, and it’s interesting, but I don’t get a chance to have my say. Social media allows each person to say something, then read responses, then respond to those…
Enjoy your social media style vacation. I go on trips with my family with my camera so I can capture and design and blog later…
only problem, Leora . . . I’m going through blog withdrawal
🙂
I’m looking forward to seeing some of your photos
🙂
I am going to go carefully read your “listening” post. Sometimes I feel like I listen but I don’t connect – trying to find that balance for myself. Glad you are finding ways to talk social media while enjoying your vacation!
Leora, it’s definitely a challenge for me to not think social media, you know like always “thinking in your native language” when trying to practice a new one. Only in this case, it is the other way around. Social media now seems like my “native” language.
Happy listening
🙂