Meetups - A Worldwide Movement to Meet New People
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For many the New Year means setting new goals, or in the very least, implementing change. Changes, big and small, can be applied to our health, lifestyle, career and social life, indeed to all the facets of our lives.
American Actor, Jimmy Dean, once said "I can't change the direction of the wind, but I can adjust my sails to always reach my destination". Although we may have recently celebrated Australia Day it is not too late for any of us to adjust our sails.
Back in 2002 two New Yorkers created an online social network portal that facilitated offline group meetings in various localities around the world. The idea was that members could find and join a group with like-minded people united by a common interest or hobby.
This is how Meetup came into being. It was seen as being an easier avenue to connect with strangers after the attacks of 9/11. Today Meetup has over 210,000 groups worldwide, and over 22 million members.
Meetup groups operating in my home town of Brisbane cover a vast range of interests.There are groups for those interested in dancing, photography, reading, learning a new language, spirituality, ceramics and mosaics. There are groups for those who love to travel, go camping, 4 Wheel Driving, and for motorbike enthusiasts. See for yourself and be amazed by the diversity of the interest groups by looking [LINK=https://www.meetup.com/cities/au/brisbane]here
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How does Meetup work?
If you are looking to expand your social network and further your particular interest find a group that resonates. Apply to join by following the prompts on the group's page in which you are interested.
There are no joining fees for members, though the organiser may ask for a donation towards costs when you attend a meeting, especially if room hire is involved. Generally, you are only up for your own expenses. Remember, Meetup is about putting like-minded people together.
If you can't find a special interest group that suits you why not organise one of your own? This is where the creators make their money. There is a monthly fee charge and the bigger the group membership the larger the fee.
Have I any personal experience with Meetup groups? Yes, I most certainly have. Currently, I am a member of two groups, one involving Tribute Bands which has provided the impetus to enjoy live music and meet new people. Hey, I was too young to see Freddy Mercury live so I make no apologies. The other is a more sedate yet zany collection of fans of collecting.
Have I considered starting up a Meetup Group? Certainly. My local area lacks an evening book and dining club. The organisers have been particularly helpful in this regard and provide both guidance and backup. I plan to be more organised for next year.
Obviously there are rules involving respect and courtesy and these are all made very clear. To be honest, it's all common sense.
So how do you feel about all this? Are you ready to step out of your comfort zone and adjust your sails?
#fun_things_to_do
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%wneverywhere
87026 - 2023-06-11 07:31:25