Pac-Man or Frogger?
Pac-Man or Frogger?
And other things I'd ask if we were having coffee.
Happy Thursday!
The only thing I hate more than meetings is icebreakers.
And, the only thing I hate more than icebreakers themselves are icebreakers that initially annoy me but end up being actually kind of cool.
This happened at a back-to-school meeting.
The icebreaker, called “Backpack Bingo,” went like this:
Step One: Get in a group of 4-5 people. Select one person to share the contents of their bag. Group members start to sweat, fearing theirs will be selected.
* Editor’s note. Normally, I’d be sweating too because, let’s face it, I often leave the house with random stuff in my bag. But that day, I was happy to have my bag chosen because I’d brought my Wolf River Leather bag. (Shout out to my friends Kim and Jim, the couple behind Wolf River Leather.) In this case, I figured it’d make a good conversation starter.
But back to the icebreaker.
Step Two: Locate items in the bag that align with bingo criteria -Find… something that shows you’re organized, something that shows your hobby, something that shows you travel, something that means absolutely nothing.
Since I didn’t really know the people in my group and vice versa, it was a nice way to casually tell my story. Better than, “Turn to an elbow partner (#cringe) and share what you like to do in your free time.”
The activity was fun and authentic, a true relationship builder.
It also led me to What I’d Rather Be Talking About this week:
We’re all just a step away from making new connections/friends; sometimes, we just need to open the door, share our stories… and go beyond the pleasantries, fluff, and cringy questions.
This week, I’m focusing on how we can make new connections and enrich those we already have.
With that, let’s connect!
Abbey
LISTEN
Hello Monday host Jessi Hempel talks with superconnector Susan McPherson, who has something to say about building and maintaining relationships in her book, The Lost Art of Connecting, and in this episode.
On The Jasmine Star Show: How to Create More Meaningful Relationships in Business
Looking to reinvent yourself? Chalene Johnson can help! Great episode if it’s time to change things up in any area of your life.
WATCH
Inspired by a Vogue interview on YouTube titled “73 Questions With Sarah Jessica Parker,” I had my husband interview me in the same spirit. (Watch for that in the very near future!)
Anti-aging from an absolutely lovely YouTuber named Sandra. She’s 84, beautiful, and absolutely wise.
You can watch or read a very special piece written by my (late) dad, Dr. James Algiers. My dad spent his 80s and 90s recalling his life and documenting it in the form of (actual) emails to his childhood friend, Louie. This particular “Letter to Louie - 75 Years of Friendship” is a great example of the importance of lifelong friendships.
EAT/DRINK
Photo by Lee Myungseong on Unsplash
Whipped coffee, anyone? This morning treat is one of many recipes by @PlantYou - I also discovered tasty-looking granola, blueberry muffin chia pudding, and this protein-powder-free but protein-packed smoothie.
Headed to a barbeque to close out summer? Try these vegan picnic recipes, Asian-inspired vegan snacks, clever ideas if you’re stumped on what to make, and even more healthy food that everyone will love.
The best wines to pair with your barbeque, Costco wine reviews, and a peek at the best red wines for fall 2023. Cheers!
TRAVEL
Not going anywhere, but want to feel like you’re in a hotel with a cozy new robe? Find yours here.
Here’s a crazy idea. Use your hobby as a springboard to an interesting trip. Check out these ideas or pick up a new hobby in a fun place.
Get the lowdown on fall travel - where to go, best prices, and more.
ON A SERIOUS NOTE
I started out this newsletter talking about the importance of making genuine connections and how to share our stories authentically.
But how about applying that concept to our everyday lives and really having some good (and fun) convos with the people we see every day?
I’m talking about ditching the “How was your day, dear” routine and either having some fun with some random rapid-fire questioning or taking the time to get deep on something. It might just take your relationships to a whole new level.
If that feels way too awkward, check out these sites with questions for:
first dates, new friends, or “how well do I know so-and-so” situations
any situation under the sun where you want to spice up the convo
“This or that?” questions for everyone
Whatever you choose, the point is… let’s be real, and more importantly… let’s truly get to know and appreciate those we’re with.
Until next week,
Abbey
P.S. And if you’re wondering, I’m a Pac-Man girl all the way. You?