The 10% rule. One way to be charismatic is to react 10% more than what is expected in a situation. If something surprising happens, be a little extra shocked. If someone is telling you a challenge they are going through, be a smidge more understanding. When introducing yourself at a party, give it a bit more energy. Or so the rule goes…

My weirdness typically puts me a speck above that 10% threshold. Add to that a nomadic quest; I am in trouble. Plus, the quest is searching for an unseen woman; I am just a weirdo. And people can figure that out pretty quickly upon meeting me.

I have been trying to find the best way to introduce myself to all these new people I am meeting. 

One strategy is lay it all out there. Upon hearing of my journey, one friend in Jacksonville said, “Oh, you’re on a wife-hunt.” So, I tried “Wife-Hunting” out on some people and it gets some strong reactions and usually leads to interesting conversations. But some people look at me like I have lost my mind. My friend Courtney suggested I mollify my language to “Wife-Searching” or “Wife-Discovering.” Fair, but those lack zing.

I have also tried easing people into it. Opening with, “I just moved here” and “I am looking to meet new people.” The problem with this approach is my answers are all a little vague and people aren’t satisfied. Additionally, I pride myself on being honest to a fault, so it’s uncomfortable for me.

Frankly, I don’t mind putting people off. I am hoping to meet people similarly unafraid of pursuing a purposeful existence. Setting worthy life goals is difficult if you are afraid to look stupid.

If anyone has good ideas for introductions, I am open to suggestions. Please let me know in the comments or contact me.

Life Update:

I am really enjoying Raleigh. So far, it’s a great place to meet people. There are a lot of smart and aspiring young people. I have made some good friends and have been staying very busy week to week with Volleyball, Improv, Soccer, and Arsenal game-watches. I have gone out on a few dates and have a few more set up. We’ll see how those go.

Last week, I went to the US Open in New York (Coco!) and saw FSU take LSU down in Orlando. I got hustled in Chess in New York (A lifelong dream).