How Many Deep Connections Can We Have?

Groups of friends are fine, but deeper connections must be sought elsewhere

a masquerade of grifters with hidden agendas at an elegant dance hall, futuristic digital — by DALL·E

Networking Nightmares

In my previous life, my employer was impressed with my customer service skills and sent me to represent the company at a fancy event. They told me to be my charming self, and I shrugged the compliment off and welcomed the opportunity. It was a complete disaster. Back at work from the event, I asked never to be deployed to such networking events again. I don’t think I had ever felt more out of place.

For someone who had always thrived talking to strangers, I despised almost every interaction that day. Every chat felt forced, every question seemed banal, and every exchange appeared to have a hidden ulterior motive. It was a masquerade of secret agendas. The only authentic aspect of the dance was the interest everyone had in selling their products. Perplexed, I witnessed how most of those gathered managed to establish rapport and sign up for meetings and trade business cards. Some genuinely enjoyed every moment.

Group Dynamics

In time, I have noticed the chasm between connecting at deep and shallow levels. I was never adept at being part of large groups of friends. I never saw the appeal. Whenever I was part of one, I soon found an…