I read Thomas J. Watson Junior’s book, Father, Son, and Co.: My Life at IBM and Beyond in the early 90′s. The book tells the story of IBM from their early age as a provider of electromechanical punch card systems and the relationship between him and his father.
But the most profound learning I got from the book was about the importance of building relationships, something that has been a struggle for me since I was very young.
I don’t know if it has to do with the fact that my familiy moved around a lot (I studied in 8 different schools and 7 different cities before I got into college) or because of some other personal issues. But I struggle when I try to socialize or meet new people.
Social networking has allowed me to overcome this issue.
First, it provides me with a representation of who each person is and what they like and dislike; what they’re passionate about and where they stand on important issues. This allows me to get closer to them before meeting them.
Second, I am able to portray myself in a controlled manner. Trying to think what to say to someone I just met is very hard for me. But by thinking what I want to express and then writing it, I’m able to show my true self without appearing to be nervous, stuttering or impersonal.
I have been in some Meetups and have never been able to establish a meaningful friendship in those events, but on a daily basis I have the greatest conversations with my Twitter and FriendFeed friends, who give me knowledge, entertainment and encouragement every single day.
Now, when’s the next NYC Tweetup?
{ 1 comment… read it below or add one }
Hey Jorge,
I read this and instantly related to it, especially the part about what to say to someone whom you just met. I too am a reserved kind of guy, but have found that through interactions with people on Facebook and in the blogging realm I’m able to bring out my true self and relate to people easier. I too have found that through my writing and through the internet social interaction has become easier. I’ve also found that the freedom and ease I enjoy while sitting on my computer and interacting with people has spilled over on to the “real” side of my life. It’s getting easier to take my personality off the keyboard and in to the real world.
Be well,
Andrew