Web stuck: Shut down your laptop, meet new people

GET OUT THERE: There are too many wonderful people in the world who can influence your life for the better.

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This feature has been sourced from David B Bohl's SlowDownFast. David is a lifestyle mentor, educator and author. He prefers the simple life, relishing his role as a coach after frenzied years in the stock exchange and as an entrepreneur.

Are you the type who spends a lot of time typing away on a computer and not enough time connecting in person?

Perhaps it's been a long time since you confided in someone, so you wouldn't know a good friend even if you met them. Or, maybe you've been burned in relationships — and you find it hard to trust.

All people are different. In terms of friendship, past experience cannot necessarily predict current situations. Sure, if you were hurt by someone who you were close to or trusted, absolutely it's going to be difficult to open yourself up to new relationships. It's only human nature.

But closing yourself off is not the answer. There are too many wonderful people in the world who can influence your life for the better. Here's how to find them.

Put yourself out there

There are many people who, for whatever reasons, don't make the effort to reach out to others, share their stories, and enjoy a sense of kinship. If you're one of them but you want to change this, start by seeking out those with common interests.

Do you enjoy the outdoors? Then arrange to meet up with casual acquaintances who might want to go hiking, biking or fishing or running with you. Think co-workers, neighbours, or even that old friend who you lost touch with. Give them a call. Make the effort, even if it feels uncomfortable at first.

Love books? Find out which people at your work meet up at the local book stores. Want to get to know the locals better? Search online for community meeting board where people post activities that you may want to attend. Get out and strike up friendly conversation. Many times those with common hobbies and interests also share similar value systems.

Build new friendships slowly… step by step, day by day

Once you find people who you can feel comfortable hanging out with, the next step is getting to know them beyond "Hi, how are you?" If you're shy, it helps to ease in with a small group of two or three who make you feel welcome and comfortable in their circle.

Take your conversational cues from them (I'm not saying to be someone you're not — but if you're unsure of what to say, you can learn a lot just from smiling, listening, and asking questions).

If you find an opportunity to go out for coffee or have lunch together, take it!

This is a great time to see where the conversation goes and learn a bit more about others' lives while sharing a bit of yourself.