How can any of us forget the tumultuous years of adolescence as we navigated tight-knit cliques and sometimes confusing social networks. Even as adults, transitioning into new groups is scary and intimidating, especially when you feel like you are simply circling and aren’t sure how to break through in a meaningful way. And these issues can come up whether you’re trying to establish a presence in either in-person or online groups.
Over the years I’ve played the newcomer role ad nauseam. As difficult as it is to be a newbie, I’ve learned many valuable lessons along the way. Biggest lesson? Don’t judge a group until you’ve given members time to get to know you. An easy pit to fall into is to assume a group is cliquey based on past experiences. Put aside your doubts (and past history), show your warmth, join in when opportunities arise and be patient as you get to know others in your new community.
If a parent clique is troubling you and by extension creating problems for your child, please read my article “Mama Drama: 5 Ways to Handle Mommy Cliques” on Calgary’s Child’s website.
Please feel free to leave a comment below if this is an issue that is troubling you or if you want to share tips of your own.
In other news….
Happy May Day! Throughout May we’re celebrating motherhood with favorite memories, tips and anecdotes on my Facebook discussion group “Confidently Connected Moms.” Today we’re talking about the best advice we ever received as a new mom. Come and join the conversation today!
Also, if you didn’t receive my May newsletter, you may not know that I’m offering my e-book for only $4.99 throughout the month. You can download it on Kindle through Amazon or as a pdf on my website. Want to start receiving my monthly newsletter? Enter your email address here and you’ll be added to my list.
Prefer to read with book in hand? The book is also now available in paperback on Amazon. I recall feeling like my social network dropped out from under me after I had my son and I left the work force. If you know a new or expectant mom or a mom who is moving to a new community, Confidently Connected makes a great gift.
Have a great week!
Photo courtesy: FreeDigitalPhotos.net/arztsamui
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