At first, it was like a challenge....and I've always liked a good challenge. But now, I come because I truly enjoy the people, the things I learn (I'm a lifelong learner), and the connections I'm making. It brings me joy.

I took an hour rest. Just relaxing, sipping coffee, and looking at the Christmas tree.

Every year at Christmas, I take cards and hand deliver to my co-workers from a previous employer. I worked there 3 different tours of duty (about 20 years total). I get to hug them, catch up on families, and enjoy each other for a bit. I took them over today and enjoyed it so much. I agree with @Helen Pryse Lloyd ...connection is important.

I actually did that already. I'm hand-delivering Christmas cards to my co-workers at my previous employer.

I've got 2 examples I can share. I wanted to meet someone inspirational...motivational...and a successful author that could offer advice. People don't mind sharing advice (I reasoned with myself). I could have tried all the "big" names, but you know...they have screeners, would charge big bucks (which I don't have) and everyone wants to meet them. So, I started doing some deep digging, using keywords on social media platforms...and I found a gentleman that is a published author AND motivational speaker...and he lives in my area. So, I reached out and offered to buy him a meal or drink if he would just meet with me and give me words of wisdom. Well, he did. He brought a signed copy of one of his books, we ate a meal, and he was humble and generous with his wisdom. But he admitted why he met me. It wasn't to offer advice (because he gets paid to do motivational speaking)...but he wanted to know how I found him. He tries to keep a very low-key profile in the local community. Many of his friends don't even know what he does "for a living". heehee. I also located a much older gentleman (probably in his 80s or 90s) that has published a couple of historic fiction books (right up my alley). He's local as well. We met, I bought his meal, and we had a great talk. He was inspirational and just a wonderful human. As you said in this post, just reach out. People are willing to give advice and guidance. You must be receptive to take the words of wisdom and use them.

@Helen Pryse Lloyd I type too fast. Sometimes get a little "long winded".