Like most twenty-somethings, I've spent the last few days playing a whole lot of Pokemon GO. This game is amazing for a number of reasons--namely, it's fun and it encourages people to get outside and exercise.
But the social dynamics involved here are also INCREDIBLE. There's never been an opportunity like this to go out in your town and start playing a game that will lead so quickly and easily to meeting people. (In fact, I'm honestly surprised that I'm the first to post on this.)
I've been constantly running into people playing, and I've had some great conversations with other players.
Most notably, about an hour ago, I ran into an HB 9 that was clearly playing the game (you'll know when you see them... People walking around holding phones with an expression like they're looking for something). She was with a friend (HB 7), but was easily led away as I helped her track down a Haunter (plausible deniability, serendipity, spontaneity, excitement).
I know I could've gotten her number if it hadn't been for my ego whispering poison into my ear (she was only 18, I'm a decent bit older, so I let myself get paranoid about coming off like a creep). And of course, now I'm kicking myself, because looking back it's so clear that she was probably more insecure than I was in that moment, and that any signs of disinterest I was picking up on probably had more to do with her own ego making her feel insecure about being young, etc.
If I had a time machine, I would go back and say something very simple before she left, like "Hey, have you played downtown yet? Let me text you later this week and we can go explore together," etc.
THESE types of interactions are PRICELESS. This is an opportunity to go out into the world and open sets sooooooo easily, while building rapport based on discussion of a mutual interest. Granted, the hype surrounding this game may not last long, so I'd recommend taking advantage sooner rather than later.
As for me, I'm hoping I'll see this girl again out there (it's a somewhat small town). If I do see her, I'll be ready. If not, there are plenty more out there.
Stay hungry,
Bobby
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