Joining the Local Facebook Moms Group.. An Interesting Experience

My first experience interacting with the local facebook moms group. Some of you may be groaning already. The good old local moms group where in between identifying kid’s illnesses like it’s web md or asking about who the best local dentist is, or my favorite what kind of spider is this. It is Texas, everyone knows the only good spider is a dead one. Now, back to the moms group.

The group shall remain nameless to protect the innocent. Over 2000 members all sharing a plethora of information. Seemed like a good idea to join. I’m new in town and this has to be a great way to meet other moms. I sat at my computer with excitement and thought I’ll set up a coffee date so I can meet others in the area. I was so excited to set up a date at a local coffee shop where moms can get coffee and kids can play. Had 35 RSVPs, everyone is excited to meet up, or so they said.

I was even worried there would be too many people and the coffee shop wouldn’t be able to accommodate all of us. Ah, the sweet innocence of a mom who hasn’t been part of these groups before. The day comes around and I happily get in my car so I can get there early and ensure our happy group of maybe 20 would be comfortable.

The meetup time is 10 am and I sit there with my goofy smile at exactly 10 am, looking at the other moms there asking if they’re part of the group. None are.

It’s now 10:10 and my smile is not as hopeful as no one has showed up yet.

At 10:15 the “sorrys cannot make it” posts start hitting the group page.

So, yes I sat there with my cup of coffee by myself. Not 1 person showed up.

Now no need to feel sorry for me.. I’ve made friends since then, no harm no foul. Life happens & as women, whether you’re a mom or not, we all get busy, we forget things. Half the time I’m lucky if I remember to feed the kids. Luckily, they remind me loudly to feed them, so they’re good.

The biggest thing I took away from that experience is life is all about taking risks. It’s risky to put yourself out there, to go meet others that you may or may not click with. To meet someone that may not like you. Shocking, I know… We’re all amazing, so why would anyone not like us? But if you want to make those friends, if you want that job, if you want that business deal, give it a try. Put yourself out there, as scary as it may seem

No one showed up to my coffee meetup, but I kept trying and found other groups. Went to a local neighborhood ladies night hosted by a neighbor, joined networking groups and ultimately created my own facebook local moms group. I’ve had the pleasure of making some great friends and I’ve met some not so nice people. When I think about some of the great people I’ve met, it really would have been a shame if I’d given up. We’re women, we can make anything happen. Well, except make a toddler take a nap or go to bed.. but most everything else

So, I challenge you to step out of your comfort zone at least once in the next month. If you do take that risk, I I would love to hear about your experience.