ONLINE: "Awkward Conversations, Open Mic" (Part 3)

This is the Monday night meeting for Orlando Stoics. It's online.

This week, we are offering an “open mic” about awkward moments in our lives. We’ll quickly review the concepts from Parts 1 and 2 (see the list below), and then you can discuss how you solved or struggled with awkward moments in your life. The dialogue will be skipped. Dan will have an outline of quotes handy, if we choose to read in the meeting. Part 1 (11-21), Part 2 (12-05), Part 3 (12-12).

READING MATERIAL

Here's StoicDan’s summary of concepts from Parts 1 and 2:
- One of the roots of awkwardness is conflict between people
- In Stoicism, the “view from above” can reduce awkwardness
- Part of awkwardness can be emotion / the fear of an unknown outcome
- In Stoicism, we are wary of impressions, which can cause awkwardness
- Use reasoning to overcome awkwardness, don’t fear admitting something
- The amygdala in the brain is the center for decision-making and emotion(!)
- In conversation, replace awkward feelings with goodwill and cooperation
- To avoid awkwardness, use Buddhist concept “reduce ego” or Taoist concept “go with the flow”
- In handling obstacles, replace awkward feelings with breaking things into pieces or writing a “plan of action”
- In relationships, end awkwardness by examining one’s self and overturning long-standing feelings
- In our personal and business lives, language can be the source of awkwardness, so listen more
- Stoics have the dichotomy of control, understanding this concept can help prevent awkwardness
- Awkwardness may arise from living “in the box” too long and fearing what would happen if we break out
- Awkness can arise when you misspell a word (I’m checking to see who’s actually reading this!)
- Awkwardness can arise with cognitive dissonance, when 2 of your thoughts or impressions conflict
- To reduce awkwardness in your life, pick a mentor in history who handled an awkward situation well
- Use the Logos to reduce awkwardness, recognize you’re part of an ordered universe, you “fit in” so no need to fear or feel awkward
- Use the Circles of Hierocles and be pro-social, reach out to people more often, this increases confidence and reduces awkwardness
- Review each day with a practical frame of mind, anticipate issues, have a “plan of action” to motivate you
- Adopt the Zen Buddhist term “shoshin”, have a beginner’s mind, open to learning new things at all times, this leaves no room for awkwardness

TIMEZONES

Meeting time (USA):
7:00PM Eastern
6:00PM Central
5:00PM Mountain
4:00PM Pacific

For our international friends,
Please convert time with the free tool
https://www.worldtimebuddy.com/

ZOOM LINK

CLICK TO START MEETING - https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82659560546

If you don't have a computer with camera, you can also dial using a phone. Pick one of these numbers and add ID 826 5956 0546#
+1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)
+1 646 558 8656 US (New York)
+1 346 248 7799 US (Houston)
+1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose)
+1 253 215 8782 US
+1 301 715 8592 US

Our group enjoys open-minded, respectful conversations on Stoicism and how it relates to science, culture, philosophy, other belief systems, and even pop culture (books and movies). Sometimes "we agree to disagree", but the long-term goal is to improve our minds via group discussions.

In general, Stoicism teaches us how to handle difficult people and events, how to avoid anger and worry, and overall to use moderation in all aspects of our lives.

This meeting is free and open to the public.