The Initiative Gap
The people I’m closest to all share one thing: I approached first.
Perspective
Fortune favors the bold.
Latin proverb
Story
Around 9pm a few days ago, I was outside doing calisthenics and stretching.
On my walk back, I saw a guy zoom past me running at night, phone flashlight on.
I paused, looking down at my crocs.
I had every excuse not to do it.
I had just worked out.
I’d already run earlier.
My neck was strained from trapezing.
My whoop sleep score.
“Fuck it.”
I caught up to him and struck up a conversation, saying it’s rare to see people running at night, a true display of character.
We talked and he asked if I do this often.
At that very moment, my mind went to another realm.
“Oh shit, I do”
Every meaningful relationship I currently have began the same way.
It was with me.
Rock climbing, the bus, in class, the gym,
I took the initiative and approached first.
This time, it was mid-run.
He turned out to be a genuinely interesting guy. Shared values. Similar drive.
We run together at 9pm, daily.
In retrospect, I have never regretted approaching someone.
Maybe you haven’t either.
Become
Become the person who takes the initiative.
Most people never do, which is why there has been an increase in loneliness.
There’s a high chance something beautiful lies on the other side.
Experiences. Brotherhood. Love.
Remember, its who you become on the journey.