Welcome back, it’s a brand new year and man can I tell you I think this one might just be the best one yet, I can just feel it. Couldn’t tell you why, but there’s a sense of new opportunities this time round. I hope you feel the same.

But today’s post is about something I thought about while spending the last week with my new best friend, Morticia the greyhound. We live much of our life with an apprehension to people we don’t know. I believe there are countless individual reasons for this: it could be that we don’t feel comfortable with people outside our circle because of ancient caveman thinking, or maybe it’s simply the fear of being judged.

Hard to say, but what I think is worth thinking about, is flipping that concept on it’s head. Instead of viewing outsiders as something to be anxious about, we should view them as something positive and affirming. Now, don’t get me wrong, even if you do follow that principle, that doesn’t mean that everyone on this planet will be kind towards you. No, unfortunately some people are mean regardless of anything you do; don’t worry that’s on them.

The best way to manage this shift in thinking is a quote or a saying that can be repeated will we are getting ready to go out into the world, so maybe say/think it during breakfast or morning routine. The one I like to use is:

“Strangers are just friends you haven’t met yet”

I really like this one a lot. It cements in my mind the idea that I am personable and someone people would like to share moments with. Also, it ameliorates that tension that can be build up in our minds around meeting new people, because it states plainly that they are already our friends, we just have to go through the motions of making that a reality.

I might leave it there, I know what you are thinking, there was no video last week and I’m sure you’re foaming at the mouth like a wild mutt for a new one. Well, guess what? Two videos tomorrow. Just to make up for it.

Hedites, venture into the world with the idea that people are looking out for you and you will find many do.

I wish you all the best for 2022, let’s stay in touch.