Do you ever wonder how to find people who get you?

As a highly sensitive person, introvert, or someone with social anxiety, it can feel especially hard to meet people who share your depth, curiosity, and quiet passions. But here’s something simple that can change everything:

Have a hobby. Even better—share it.

Many people like yourself have a rich inner world and a wide range of interests. But we often forget that those very interests can be a bridge to connection. Whatever your interest your hobby can help you:

• Meet like-minded souls

• Spark new ideas (maybe even a business!)

• Add meaning and joy to your life

• Feel more confident socially—because you’re sharing what lights you up

I get a lot of questions like:
“How can I meet others like me?”
“Is there something I could do for a living that actually feels right?”

The answer often lies in your natural passions.
They’re not random. They’re clues.

If you don’t currently have a hobby, consider starting a collection. People collect all sorts of fascinating things—like:

• Journaling or scrapbooking (creative, introspective)

• Collecting vintage children’s books or toys (nostalgic and gentle)

• Herbalism or growing indoor plants (calming, nurturing)

• Knitting, crochet, embroidery, or sewing (soothing and productive)

• Tea culture/collecting teacups or teapots (cozy, slow living)

• Nature walks with photography (peaceful and expressive)

• Pressed flower art or rock collecting (low-pressure and creative)

• Book collecting, especially old or illustrated books (rich inner world)

• Birdwatching or keeping a nature journal (quiet, mindful)

• Collecting postcards, letters, or handwritten notes (emotional resonance)  Do you have other suggestions?

Your interests they aren’t random. They’re breadcrumbs leading you to connection, creativity, and even purpose. I have an interest in collecting newspaper and magazine clippings. They have helped my writing immensely by helping me trigger a multitude of ideas.

My wife and I love hunting for treasures at flea markets, book sales, and estate sales. We collect old magazines, books, and too many other things to mention.  We belong to a group that collects Coca-Cola memorabilia called the Gateway to the West Chapter of the Coca-Cola Collectors Club. It’s fun, meaningful, and we’ve met so many kindred spirits through it. It gives us something to look forward to, takes us to new places, and is a great way to meet other people! It’s fun, and best of all—it gives us something to share with each other and with others we meet along the way.

What hobbies/collections do you have?  What brings you joy—or might bring you joy if you gave yourself permission to explore it?

Do you already collect something fascinating? I’d love to hear about it.