In Mexico last week, we “hola”-ed everywhere and conversation flowed. With a friendly “Hola”, interacting with new people became easy. What is it about travelling that opens us to conversing with strangers? How might we incorporate a “traveler” mentality into our daily interactions?
Oh, to be on vacation all the time! Yes, time was on our side. And since the clock wasn’t madly ticking, we enjoyed observations about a new place and shared them with others.
- Traveler Tip: Give our selves a few more minutes every day to enjoy whomever we’re with. Can’t we find at least one extra minute? Just say “no” to being too tightly tied to an agenda.
As we gently swam and snorkeled our way through the underground cavern, a “canotes”, not too far from the ancient ruins of Tulum, we immersed ourselves in the experience. Our senses heightened, we didn’t worry about what would come next. We were present fully to the excursion and enjoying the group and tour. Questions flowed.
- Traveler Tip: View the experience of being fully present with another person as an amazing excursion, every time.
For a few precious days we relaxed. Our pace was slower and we relished the moments. Wondering about where we’d source the next margarita was our biggest question. Since our minds weren’t cluttered, new thoughts entered.
- Traveler Tip: Use an interaction to relax and stop incessant thinking. Trust that you’ll know what to say when it’s time to speak. Stop for a few moments and breath in the place and people. Observe. Inquire. Feel creative.
The laughter at the other end of the short bar was loud and contagious. We raised our glasses and made a toast to these strangers. This caught their attention. They toasted us back. Another conversation began…reciprocation at its finest!
- Traveler Tip: Cheer someone. Acknowledge success, something you like about a person, offer a compliment, or smile. Goodwill is contagious.
On this Cinco De Mayo, let’s travel within our own country and reach out to others. Say “hola” with enthusiasm! Show interest and reap the benefits of a new world, one interactive trip at a time.
Year of Confab, 2017
#19 How do you like to greet someone? What’s a favorite follow-up question?