Embracing the Traveller’s Mindset: Building Rapport Quickly in Networking

In today’s fast-paced, digital world, the significance of face-to-face interactions often gets overshadowed by the convenience of online communication. Yet, the magic of meeting new people in person cannot be replicated through screens. As a professional who deeply values personal connections, I recently had an experience that reaffirmed my belief in the power of face-to-face interactions.

An Evening with Strangers

Earlier this month, I found myself at a lakeside picnic area just outside my mountain town of Canmore, Alberta. Passing by two travellers, I decided to embrace what I call “The Traveller’s Mindset.” This technique involves approaching life with the curiosity, a sense of adventure and openness of a traveller, eager to explore and connect with new people.

So that evening, I met two strangers. Initially, we were just three individuals sharing a public space, but soon we found ourselves engrossed in conversation. We talked about our lives, shared stories, and even enjoyed a glass of wine together. By the end of the night, what began as a chance meeting had turned into a delightful and memorable experience. Susanne and Matias were so lovely to spend time with.

The Traveller’s Mindset

So, what exactly is The Traveller’s Mindset, and why is it so effective in fostering new connections? Here are some key elements and benefits:

Curiosity: Travellers are naturally curious. They seek to understand the world around them and the people who inhabit it. This curiosity drives them to ask questions and learn from others.

Openness: When you’re in a new place, you’re more open to different experiences and perspectives. This openness allows for genuine interactions without the filters of preconceived notions.

Independence and Freedom: Travellers often feel a strong sense of independence and freedom, which enables them to act more authentically and without inhibition.

Self-Discovery: Travelling provides ample opportunities for self-reflection and personal growth. Travellers learn a lot about themselves, which boosts their self-confidence and adaptability.

Embracing Diversity: Travellers are more likely to enjoy interacting with people who are different from themselves in terms of race, religion, sexual identity, etc. This openness to diversity enriches their social experiences.

Presence and Spontaneity: Being in a new environment heightens travellers’ awareness and presence. They become more curious, spontaneous, adventurous, and adaptable, making each interaction more meaningful.

Attracting Like-minded People: The authenticity and confidence that come with the Traveller’s Mindset tend to attract like-minded individuals, facilitating deeper and more meaningful connections.

Life-changing Adventures: Travellers are more open to saying yes to new situations, leading to more frequent and impactful life-changing adventures.

Problem Solving: Exposure to various challenges while travelling hones their problem-solving skills, making them expert at navigating new and unfamiliar situations.

Below are tips on how to build rapport quickly by using this mindset.

Building Rapport Quickly: Leveraging The Traveller’s Mindset

Building rapport quickly is crucial in networking. Here are some practical tips to help you connect with new people swiftly and effectively:

Be Genuinely Interested: Show genuine curiosity about the person you’re meeting. Ask open-ended questions and listen attentively to their responses. People appreciate when others show a real interest in their lives and experiences.

Find Common Ground: Look for shared interests or experiences. This could be anything from a common hobby to a similar professional background. Finding common ground helps in establishing a connection more quickly.

Use Positive Body Language: Your body language plays a crucial role in building rapport. Smile, maintain eye contact, and use open gestures. Positive body language makes you appear more approachable and friendly.

Be Authentic: Authenticity is key to building trust. Be yourself and share your genuine thoughts and feelings. People are more likely to connect with you when they feel you are being honest and sincere.

Quality Over Quantity: Forget about working the room to connect with everyone there. Once you find yourself in a meaningful conversation with someone, allow that to develop. Making one good connection is more valuable than several meaningless ones. 

Share Personal Stories: Share a bit about yourself, especially stories that showcase your experiences and values. Personal stories can create an emotional connection and make the conversation more engaging.

Show Empathy: Demonstrate empathy by acknowledging the other person’s feelings and perspectives. Empathy fosters a deeper connection and shows that you care about their experiences.

Follow Up: After the initial meeting, follow up with a message or email. Mention something specific from your conversation to show that you were genuinely engaged. This helps in nurturing the new connection.

In Conclusion

My evening with two strangers at the lakeside picnic area near Canmore was a testament to the power of building new connections quickly. By adopting The Traveller’s Mindset, I was able to turn a potentially ordinary night into a memorable experience filled with meaningful interactions. I encourage you to step out of your comfort zone, embrace curiosity, adventure and openness, and discover the incredible benefits of meeting new people face-to-face.

To learn more about building human connections, visit Talk2MorePeople.com.

Tony Esteves is a a Solution Focused Coach and a circus performer. Tony is also the author of the book, “Talk2MorePeople: Change Your Life by Meeting people.” He is passionate about spending time in the mountains and creating human connection.

Connection and Coffee

In the midst of our bustling lives, we often overlook the simple joys of human connection. Yet, in the most unexpected of places, we can stumble upon moments of profound magic that remind us of the transformative power of strangers.

During a recent camping excursion in Radium, BC, I found myself in such a moment. As I sat by the van that brisk morning, immersed in the tranquility of nature, I realized,

I had forgotten the most essential ingredient for my morning ritual: coffee!

In a stroke of luck, I spotted a fellow camper parked nearby and decided to approach. With a mix of hope and curiosity, I asked if they had any coffee to spare. To my surprise and gratitude, Johnny offered me a bag of ground coffee beans. I’ve attempted to crush up full coffee beans with a hammer while camping in the past, and I don’t recommend it.

As I brewed that first cup of coffee, and got into reading my favourite book of poetry by Richard Wagamese, “Embers”, I couldn’t help but marvel at the serendipity of it all. Here I was, miles away from home, experiencing a moment of connection and generosity with a stranger. I’ve met thousands of strangers, but this “coffee connection” seemed extra special to me.

Reflecting and Healing

In the days that followed, I reflected on the deeper significance of our chance encounter. It wasn’t just about the coffee or the conversation, but the healing power of opening ourselves up to connection, even in the briefest of encounters. The several hours I spent reading, journaling, and feeling connected to the land – while enjoying this unexpected coffee – was deeply healing for me during a time of big changes in my personal life. 

Meeting strangers reminds us of our shared humanity and the beauty of interconnectedness. In a world often divided, these moments of connection offer glimpses of hope and kindness that transcend barriers.

So, the next time you find yourself face to face with a stranger, whether in a bustling city or a remote campsite, embrace the opportunity for connection. The opportunity is almost always there. You never know what kind of magic awaits when you open your heart to the beauty of meeting strangers.

It’s Time to Change Your Life by Meeting People

Of course, you may not have friendly strangers offering you coffee in the forest, but my wish is for you to witness just how much good can come from at least being open to connecting with new people. I believe that it is essential for each of us to be open to these opportunities. They create moments of human connection and ripple effects of positivity. If you’d like some help with this, pick up the Talk2MorePeople book for a proven method on how to bring new people, opportunities and experiences into your life.

Happy connecting.

Tony Esteves is a a Solution Focused Coach an Interpretive Tour Guide and a performing artist living in Canmore, Alberta. Tony is also the author of the book, “Talk2MorePeople: Change Your Life by Meeting people.” He is passionate about spending time in the mountains and creating human connection.

Reflecting on the Inaugural “Talk to a Stranger Week”

The recent launch of the first “Talk to a Stranger Week” by the Gen Well Project, Canada’s human connection movement, aimed to educate people about the research-based benefits of talking to strangers. 

As a participant and volunteer in Calgary during this momentous week, it was a fascinating experience and a fun challenge. Sporting shirts bearing the prompt “Do you talk to strangers?” we distributed informative postcards, and engaged with people during the busy lunch hour in Calgary’s “Plus 15” network.

Meeting People Can Be a Challenge

Of course, we experienced resistance, as people may have expected that we were selling something while handing out the postcards. But our efforts were rewarding as we were able to create more awareness about the benefits of talking to strangers and did indeed get into conversations with folks. 

The activations in Toronto and Calgary led to significant media coverage, which amplified this awareness campaign. Taylor Braat from CBC Calgary did a short story on Talk To A Stranger Week for the 6pm news and I was invited a guest on the “Calgary Eyeopener” morning radio show with Loren McGinnis. Click HERE for that interview. 

The Gen Well Project founder, Pete Bombaci was also busy with multiple interviews in Toronto that broadcast across Canada. 

My involvement with this week was a reminder of how rewarding it can be to volunteer. Doing so allowed me to re-connect with friends and also to meet new people.

It was a true pleasure to have been a part of this important week and I look forward to supporting again in the future. 

Resources to Explore

Have a look at the Gen Well Project’s press release for Talk To A Stranger Week.

Check out the Gen Well Project Website below for events research and resources on how to meet new people.

https://genwellproject.org/

Below is the Talk To A Stranger Week Website:

https://talktoastrangerweek.org/

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Tony Esteves is an internationally renowned expert in fostering authentic human connections.

As the acclaimed author of “Talk2MorePeople: Change Your Life by Meeting people.” Tony presents a proven methodology for inviting fresh experiences, new connections, and untapped possibilities into your life and professional sphere. He is passionate about spending time in the mountains and being connected to nature.

Immerse yourself in meaningful work and thrive in our interconnected world at Talk2MorePeople.com. Discover how to forge deeper connections by registering for Tony’s free Human Connection Starter Kit and embark on a journey of personal and professional fulfillment. 

Join This Human Connection Movement

Harnessing the profound impact of human connection can revolutionize not only our personal lives but also our society as a whole. Recently, I had the privilege of attending the second annual Canadian Human Connection Conference in Toronto, Ontario. This was an event that left me inspired and eager to share why you should consider joining this transformative experience in the fall of 2024.

Canadian Human Connection Conference 2023. Photo courtesy of the Gen Well project.

This conference delved deep into the critical role of human connection in our lives. Numerous speakers referenced the U.S. Surgeon General’s Advisory on the Healing Effects of Social Connection and Community, published earlier this year.

The awareness and recognition of the power of social bonds are spreading globally.

Beyond personal connections, and the extensive research presented, the conference highlighted the incredible work of Pete Bombaci who is the founder of the Gen Well Project. This “Human Connection” movement, dedicated to fostering human connections, and educating Canadians on the importance of social health, has the potential to reshape our society profoundly.

As we discussed the significance of social connection, it became evident that there is momentum building. The Canadian federal government is now allocating resources to develop the “Canadian Social Connection Guidelines,” recognizing the vital importance of human connection for our overall well-being.

Attending this conference made me feel like an integral part of a movement that is poised to change the very fabric of our society. This initiative empowers us to become catalysts for transformation, driving change on a broader scale.

I’ve found a new community.

The conference also opened the door to a thriving professional community of passionate researchers and social practitioners. If you’ve got an eye for research, explore the Canadian Alliance for Social Connection & Health who are in partnership with the Gen Well Project. Beyond expanding our networks, we have the chance to influence and guide society toward a more interconnected, compassionate, and understanding future. I believe that we could use this now more than ever. 

Join us next year.

Looking ahead to next year, anticipation is building for a conference that promises to be even larger and more transformative. I’ll be sure to keep you informed on the opportunity to immerse yourself in this human connection movement.

In conclusion, don’t underestimate the potential of human connection to re-shape our society. Canada is poised to lead the way by implementing Social Connection Guidelines. These will be similar to the guidelines we have for fitness and nutrition. Embrace the power of human connection and become an integral part of a movement that’s redefining the way we connect and thrive together.

This is not just about personal growth; it’s about creating a brighter future for all.

 

Tony is the author of “Talk2MorePeople: Change Your Life by Meeting People,” which teaches people to uncover opportunities and adventures by putting down their phones and connecting with real, live people face-to-face. By registering for Tony’s free “Talk2MorePeople Tips” at https://tinyurl.com/T2MPnews/, you will receive a “Human Connection Starter Kit” with free sections from the book and other great resources to build human connection. Learn how to build more human connections into your life and business today at Talk2MorePeople.com.

A Celebration of Human Connection

I recently hosted an event called “The Human Connection Celebration” and it was a really special evening. The event was all about bringing people together to connect, network, share food, and listen to live music at it took place at the CanMore Together Community Hub. We had 20 participants and it was a beautiful night.

During the event, I gave a presentation on human connection where I celebrated the conclusion of my Talk2MorePeople Project that I concluded six years ago this week. During that project, I made a point of meeting at least one new stranger every day for a full year. I also announced that I had started a new 30-day challenge to meet a new stranger every day for 30 days in a row. This new challenge began on April 14th, 2023. Several people who participated in the original challenge years ago, were also present at the event.

 

We also had guest and contributing author, Tracey Delfs, who led a beautiful guided meditation that helped everyone to connect with themselves and each other. Following this, musical guest Tru Guy Stefan played a one-hour concert, which added to the soulful vibe of the night. The beautiful photography is by Beata Albert, who is the first stranger that I met this year. We were all on the ridge in Canmore when I started juggling just after the fireworks. It was my pleasure to hire her to capture my event. Check out her work HERE.

The event was a great success, and we made some amazing new connections throughout the night. It was truly inspiring to see people from different walks of life come together to celebrate the power of human connection.

If you are interested in following my current adventure of meeting strangers on YouTube, I invite you to do so on my new channel HERE. You never know who you might meet or what connections you might make along the way.

To read more detail about how to meet people, pick up the Talk2MorePeople Book.

Connect with Tony Esteves

Tony Esteves is a virtual and in-person Business Coach for Artists, author, facilitator, and circus performer living in beautiful Canmore, Alberta, Canada. With over a decade of coaching experience, he has helped many individuals and businesses achieve their goals. Tony is a passionate adventurer and has traveled to 40 countries, believing that adventure is an essential aspect of living a full life.

In addition to coaching, Tony is also an experienced facilitator who has led in-person learning experiences in Canada, the USA, South Africa, South America, Europe, and Japan. His mission on this planet is to bring people together and create more human connections.

Tony is the author of “Talk2MorePeople: Change Your Life by Meeting People,” which teaches people to uncover opportunities and adventures by putting down their phones and connecting with real, live people face-to-face. By registering for Tony’s free “Talk2MorePeople Tips” newsletter at https://tinyurl.com/T2MPnews/, you will receive a “Human Connection Starter Kit” with free sections from the book and other great resources to build human connection. Learn how to build more human connections into your life and business today at https://Talk2MorePeople.com.

Are you looking to broaden your social circle and meet new people from all over the world?

If so, look no further than Couchsurfing.com! This fantastic travel community offers travellers a unique way to connect with locals and other travellers alike, providing you with the opportunity to make unforgettable memories and forge lasting human connections. Below is a video interview with my two most recent guests in Canmore, Alberta. In this conversation, we talk about some of the benefits of using Couchsurfing, and Nicole and Vee share what their experience was like.

Here are 5 great reasons why meeting new people through Couchsurfing.com is an amazing way to build human connections.

  1. You’ll Meet Like-minded People

One of the most significant benefits of Couchsurfing.com is that you’ll meet like-minded people who share similar interests and passions. Whether you love hiking, cultural immersion, or simply exploring new places, you’ll find others who share your enthusiasm and are eager to connect with you. With Couchsurfing.com’s user-friendly interface, you can easily find people with whom you share common ground, making it easier to create meaningful connections.

  1. You’ll Gain Local Insights

By staying with locals or meeting up with them, you’ll gain an insider’s perspective on your destination, which can enrich your travel experience. Locals can give you insights into their city or town that you wouldn’t be able to get from guidebooks, websites, or even tour guides. They can also offer practical tips, like the best places to eat, shop, and explore, as well as hidden gems that you might not have discovered on your own.

  1. You’ll Expand Your Social Circle

Meeting new people through Couchsurfing is an excellent way to expand your social circle and make new friends from all over the world. You’ll have the opportunity to connect with people from different backgrounds and cultures, which can broaden your perspective and challenge your assumptions. Moreover, you’ll make connections that can last a lifetime, like our friends Nicole and Vee, who we met through Couchsurfing. It’s as if we have already known them for years because we consider them friends who will always be welcome to visit and stay with us in the future. 

  1. You’ll Save Money

Couchsurfing is a fantastic resource for budget-conscious travellers. By staying with locals, you can save money on accommodation, and you’ll have access to insider knowledge on how to navigate your destination on a budget. You can also participate in local activities or events that won’t break the bank.

  1. You’ll Build Human Connections

Ultimately, the best reason to meet new people through Couchsurfing is that it fosters meaningful human connections. Traveling can be a lonely experience, but by connecting with locals and other travellers, you’ll create bonds that can last a lifetime. These connections can lead to new opportunities, like job offers, travel companions, or even lifelong friendships.

So, what are you waiting for? Check out Couchsurfing today and start building your own human connections. As a bonus, you can start using the platform just to meet people for a coffee before you start hosting to test the waters.

Remember to sign up below for our “Human Connection Starter Kit,” a free resource that offers dozens of tips and tricks for building connections with others. Let’s make the world a more connected place, one connection at a time.

Tony Esteves is a virtual and in-person Business Coach for Artists, author, facilitator, and circus performer living in beautiful Canmore, Alberta, Canada. With over a decade of coaching experience, he has helped many individuals and businesses achieve their goals. Tony is a passionate adventurer and has traveled to 40 countries, believing that adventure is an essential aspect of living a full life.

In addition to coaching, Tony is also an experienced facilitator who has led in-person learning experiences in Canada, the USA, South Africa, South America, Europe, and Japan. His mission on this planet is to bring people together and create more human connections.

Tony is the author of “Talk2MorePeople: Change Your Life by Meeting People,” which teaches people to uncover opportunities and adventures by putting down their phones and connecting with real, live people face-to-face. By registering for Tony’s free “Talk2MorePeople Tips” at https://tinyurl.com/T2MPnews/, you will receive a FREE Human Connection Starter Kit including more than 80 different ways to meet new people. Learn how to build more human connections into your life and business today!

Canada is making history by introducing the world’s first Social Connection Guidelines, set to be released in the next few years. These guidelines aim to encourage individuals to develop more positive and meaningful relationships, both virtually and in-person, a crucial step in the current context where many people are experiencing increased disconnection due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

At the core of these guidelines is the understanding that social connections have a significant impact on our physical and mental health. Research has proven that individuals with strong social connections are more likely to live longer, have better overall health, and are better equipped to manage stress and difficult situations. 

The Harvard Study of Adult Development has even identified social relationships as the most critical factor in predicting a longer, healthier life.

On the other hand, loneliness and social isolation can lead to negative health outcomes, such as an increased risk of heart disease, depression, anxiety, substance use disorder, and cognitive decline. Unfortunately, many individuals are unaware of the harmful effects of isolation on physical health.

The Canadian Association for Social Connection and Health (CASCH), a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting social connection as a key determinant of health and well-being, has been leading the development of the Social Connection Guidelines. With the support of the Canadian government and in partnership with the GenWell Project led by Founder Pete Bombaci, CASCH has conducted extensive research on the importance of social connection and its impact on health. The forthcoming guidelines will offer practical tips and advice on building and maintaining meaningful social connections, covering topics such as starting a conversation with a stranger, joining a community group, or volunteering. For an excellent interview on CBC’s “The Current with Matt Galloway”, listen to the discussion with Dr. Gillian Sandstrom and Pete Bombaci here. 

While waiting for the official guidelines’ release, there are several things individuals can do to enhance their social connections. Attending human connection events, such as networking events, yoga classes, book clubs, or cooking workshops, is an excellent way to meet new people and form meaningful connections. Joining community groups and volunteering are also effective ways to give back to society while connecting with like-minded individuals.

In conclusion, Canada’s Social Connection Guidelines are a significant step towards promoting social connection as a key determinant of health and well-being. Positive social interactions are beneficial not just for our mental health but also our physical health, and by taking advantage of the practical tips and advice in the guidelines, individuals can start building more positive and meaningful relationships. Let’s embrace the power of social connection and start living happier and healthier lives. 

 

Tony Esteves is a virtual and in-person Business Coach for Artists, author, facilitator, and circus performer living in beautiful Canmore, Alberta, Canada. With over a decade of coaching experience, he has helped many individuals and businesses achieve their goals. Tony is a passionate adventurer and has traveled to 40 countries, believing that adventure is an essential aspect of living a full life.

In addition to coaching, Tony is also an experienced facilitator who has led in-person learning experiences in Canada, the USA, South Africa, South America, Europe, and Japan. His mission on this planet is to bring people together and create more human connections.

Tony is the author of “Talk2MorePeople: Change Your Life by Meeting People,” which teaches people to uncover opportunities and adventures by putting down their phones and connecting with real, live people face-to-face. By registering for Tony’s free “Talk2MorePeople Tips” at https://tinyurl.com/T2MPnews/, you will receive a FREE Human Connection Starter Kit including more than 80 different ways to meet new people. Learn how to build more human connections into your life and business today!

How is AI going to help build human connection?

Now that’s a great question. How do you envision the future of human connection with the rise of AI? Could it potentially bring us closer together or will it ultimately lead to further disconnection and isolation? Check out this video where I share my thoughts on how I think it is actually going to help build human connection. You are welcome to share your thoughts in the comments below the video.

Tony Esteves is a virtual and in-person Business Coach for Artists, author, facilitator, and circus performer living in beautiful Canmore, Alberta, Canada. With over a decade of coaching experience, he has helped many individuals and businesses achieve their goals. Tony is a passionate adventurer and has traveled to 40 countries, believing that adventure is an essential aspect of living a full life.

In addition to coaching, Tony is also an experienced facilitator who has led in-person learning experiences in Canada, the USA, South Africa, South America, Europe, and Japan. His mission on this planet is to bring people together and create more human connections.

Tony is the author of “Talk2MorePeople: Change Your Life by Meeting People,” which teaches people to uncover opportunities and adventures by putting down their phones and connecting with real, live people face-to-face. By registering for Tony’s free “Talk2MorePeople Tips” at https://tinyurl.com/T2MPnews/, you will receive a FREE Human Connection Starter Kit including more than 80 different ways to meet new people. Learn how to build more human connections into your life and business today!

This Start Stop Challenge just might change your life.

Here is your opportunity to join the Start Stop Challenge for January, 2023. Decide to start something and stop something this month and connect with people who are doing the same.

Research proves that having someone to keep you accountable greatly increases the likelihood that you’ll reach your goal so I’m looking for people to keep me accountable. Will you be one of them?

Sign Me Up!

Click on this LINK or the image below to fill out a short form to declare what you’ll start and stop in January of 2023. Prizes are available for your participation.

 

 

What are the Prizes?

I’m offering you a chance to win a coaching prize (worth over $500) by joining me on this self-improvement journey for 4 weeks. On January 31st, 2021, there will be a draw held between the people who have remained engaged with the challenge. That does not mean that you need to complete your challenge perfectly to qualify. Rather, you only need to show that you you are working on it by attending one or more zoom meetings with me in January, or by emailing in your progress.

If you are interested in a cash prize as was given last year, you are welcome to contribute $25 to the pot. There will also be a draw amongst those who contribute to the cash prize on January 31st. Anyone can participate, but only those who contribute to this cash prize will be eligible to win it. The size of the prize depends on the number of people who contribute to it.

What’s the Challenge?

To enter this draw, you only need to fill out a simple form letting me know at least one healthy habit that you are going to start doing (that you will do every day, daily) and at least one thing that you are going to stop doing (and not do for a single day) in January 2023. You don’t need to get your Start Stop Challenge perfect, but will need to remain engaged to qualify for the draws on January 31st. After filling out the form, you will receive an email from Tony with further details.

The deadline to enter is midnight MDT on Monday evening, January 2nd, 2023.

I’ll start my challenge on the first but know that some people will benefit from the extra two days to get started.

What I will START and STOP

I recommend that you commit to only one “start” and one “stop”, but you can do more if you like. Last year, I had a list of things that I wanted to start and stop, and food that I fell short in a few places. I believe that focusing on just one start objective and one stop objective will be most useful for this challenge.

Below is what I’m committing to for January 2023.

START:

Increased Daily Mindfulness Practice. 

I will do yoga and / or meditate every day this month for a minimum of 30 minutes

STOP:

No refined sugar.

I will consume no refined sugar this month. I will monitor this in great detail by checking the ingredients on any processed food and will not eat it if there is any form of refined sugar in that product.

How about you? What could you accomplish next month?

So don’t hesitate, take 3 minutes, register and help me and help yourself get the new year off to a great start!

Tony Esteves is a virtual and in-person Business Coach for Artists, author, facilitator, and circus performer living in beautiful Canmore, Alberta, Canada. With over a decade of coaching experience, he has helped many individuals and businesses achieve their goals. Tony is a passionate adventurer and has traveled to 40 countries, believing that adventure is an essential aspect of living a full life.

In addition to coaching, Tony is also an experienced facilitator who has led in-person learning experiences in Canada, the USA, South Africa, South America, Europe, and Japan. His mission on this planet is to bring people together and create more human connections.

Tony is the author of “Talk2MorePeople: Change Your Life by Meeting People,” which teaches people to uncover opportunities and adventures by putting down their phones and connecting with real, live people face-to-face. By registering for Tony’s free “Talk2MorePeople Tips” at https://tinyurl.com/T2MPnews/, you will receive a FREE Human Connection Starter Kit including more than 80 different ways to meet new people. Learn how to build more human connections into your life and business today!

Mental Health and Magic Mushrooms

This year has presented myself and my family with unprecedented challenges due to a tragic loss. For me to navigate this, I’ve chosen to be pro-active at finding and using three mental health supports available to me. I’m sharing this for you to consider how you might support yourself or a loved one in a time of need.

#1. I hired a coach who is guiding me towards and through my first medicine journey. I work as a coach myself, and am so grateful to have found a coach who can support me at this time. If you’ve never worked with a coach and would like to try, reply to this message and let’s talk.

#2. I started regular counselling with an excellent counsellor who I found through the Calgary Counseling Centre. Early this year, this organization received funding from the Alberta government to offer, “Effective and affordable counselling for all Albertans.” I highly recommend exploring their services – available on a sliding scale – if you, or someone you know would like mental health support at this time.

#3. Finally, I decided to try micro-dosing magic mushrooms or psilocybin for the first time. What I’m finding from consuming a 1/8 gram of this medicine every other day is a greater sense of groundedness, more certainty around the decisions I make, and an overall generally greater sense of well-being. People can take a smaller or larger dose and still be considered a “micro-dose” and this amount has been almost entirely sub-perceptual for me. If you are curious about the incredible healing powers of these so-called, “magic mushrooms”, look up the documentary called, “Fantastic Fungi” which is currently available on Netflix. For a very scientific explanation of how mushrooms could save the world, watch this TED Talk by Paul Stamets.

Alberta will be the first province in Canada to partially legalize the medical use of such substances in January 2023.

The combination of these three types of support have lifted me out of deep uncertainty and moments of hopelessness to a place of positivity and optimism in a relatively short period of time.

I see the way the that the mycelium network supports soil health and nutrient distribution in the earth relates to how we as people need a network to survive as social animals. It is profoundly important to nourish and care for our social connections for our own mental health. Connecting with new people is another way to be supported in this way.

Of course, none of what I have shared above is prescriptive. This is all just my own experience. We should always speak with a mental health professional before making any decision about how to better take care of ourselves.

I encourage you to consider what options might be readily available to you at a time when you need support for your mental health.

 

Tony Esteves is a virtual and in-person Business Coach for Artists, author, facilitator, and circus performer living in beautiful Canmore, Alberta, Canada. With over a decade of coaching experience, he has helped many individuals and businesses achieve their goals. Tony is a passionate adventurer and has traveled to 40 countries, believing that adventure is an essential aspect of living a full life.

In addition to coaching, Tony is also an experienced facilitator who has led in-person learning experiences in Canada, the USA, South Africa, South America, Europe, and Japan. His mission on this planet is to bring people together and create more human connections.

Tony is the author of “Talk2MorePeople: Change Your Life by Meeting People,” which teaches people to uncover opportunities and adventures by putting down their phones and connecting with real, live people face-to-face. By registering for Tony’s free “Talk2MorePeople Tips” at https://tinyurl.com/T2MPnews/, you will receive a FREE Human Connection Starter Kit including more than 80 different ways to meet new people. Learn how to build more human connections into your life and business today!