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Most of the walks I take are solitary, if you don't count my dog. But after reading my colleague Angela Haupt's new story about the rise of audiobook walking clubs, I'm tempted to ditch the leash for a pair of headphones and some new bibliophile friends. |
Later in this edition, Angela shares some behind-the-scenes reporting that might just inspire you to start this type of social club in your own town. |
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TODAY’S TOPICS |
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PLEASE ADVISE |
Ask the health team |
Have a burning health or wellness question? Wondering how to handle a tricky social situation? Please write to healthmatters@time.com, and we’ll weigh in weekly in the newsletter. |
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QUICK CHAT |
Go ahead and start your own social club |
While reporting my new story about audiobook walking clubs, I spoke with Morgan Menzies, who started one in the Washington, D.C., area because she wanted to make friends. When I asked what she'd tell someone nervous about launching a similar group, she said something I immediately wanted to write down: “No one's measuring your metrics.” As someone who can turn even a hobby into a performance review, I found this deeply appealing. —Angela Haupt, Editor, Health & Wellness |
This interview has been condensed and edited for clarity. |
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Photo-Illustration by TIME (Source Images: DmitriiSimakov, Thinkstock, WhiteTea, Westend61—Getty Images) |
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You told me something I haven't stopped thinking about: “No one's measuring your metrics.” What did you mean? |
I think sometimes we get so caught up in thinking that if something doesn't reach a certain number, it's not working. But if you're starting something because you enjoy it and want to connect with people, why does it have to be a certain size? No one's measuring your metrics. It's totally fine. |
What if you organize something and only one person shows up? |
Who cares? That's one person! You've met someone new, and you get to spend time together doing something you enjoy. And if two people show up the next month, look at that—you've already improved. |
Do you think we put too much pressure on ourselves to make our hobbies successful? |
I think it's important to remember that it's a hobby. You're doing something you enjoy. You don't need to get caught up in how many people are participating or whether it's growing. Just start and see where it goes. |
What would you tell someone who's been sitting on an idea because they're afraid it won't take off? |
Just do it. It takes effort to build a community, and there are probably other people in your area who want the same thing. If it's something you want, put yourself out there and see what happens. |
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