It is so easy to get lost in new terrains. Trying to find your feet in new frontiers can be challenging. In fact interacting with the new can be daunting at times. Ever attended an event where you dont know anybody so you first stay apart watching other attendees like a soccer scout? what you are doing at that moment is seeking a familiar point of entry to join an existing group or make interaction. Many times people will tend to gravitate towards ethnicity, age group, gender, a topic of discussion or even another nervous person to form some sort of kinship and camaraderie.
In Ireland a common conversation starter is cantered on the weather. The state of the weather is a familiar conversation opener. Its not unusual for total strangers to strike up a conversation with others by commenting on the state of the weather before gravitating towards other simpler or complex topics. This most times is how relationships are formed.
People start with what they know as the familiar helps give a sense of safety and comfort.
It helps create connection with your unique audience and it helps build authenticity.
It also helps others relate with you and your subject.
I watched a movie the other day and a young man was pitching his business in a room filled with would be investors. He started with complex and grand ideals of his idea but later noticed the people in the room were disinterested. Then he asked to start again. This time he started with a story, a familiar story, a personal story. this captured the interest of his audience as they were able to connect with his story.
In starting with what he knew he owned the room, his story and the audience because starting with you know puts you in charge of the narrative and keeps you anchored. You are not dealing from an “unknown” or strange position but a grounded place of strength and that is a vantage position.
What you know is your strength. There is a confidence that comes with knowing that you know what you know.
Starting with what you know is also good for your mental health. Starting a new business, relationships and charting new frontiers can be stressful and hard on a person’s mental health. Notice that children starting school for the first time are allowed to bring their favourite toys or blanket to help them settle into their new environment pending when they are comfortable enough to actively engage with others which is the next level achievement.
Starting with what you know serves as a launch pad for growth. Its like building blocks, placing one block on top another until a larger aim is achieved.
Starting with what you know does not negate curiosity or embracing new experiences but it is a confident way to start.
What you know might seem small in the face of larger events but it is yours. Own it and build on it!