Index of

approximates the diff erence in eff ort between an established habit
and creating a new behavioral patt ern.
Th is may seem a tad demoralizing. But wait! Th ere is a silver lining.
Taking action close to the point of inspiration instigates the ground
breaking of a new neurotransmitt er signal and greatly increases the
probability that a new patt ern will in fact be established. Writing
about a fresh beginning and verbalizing it count as real fi rst steps.
Once you get a few new neurotransmitt er pathways in place, fl exing
your style while maintaining your comfort and integrity becomes
easier. Plus, the payoff from creating these miniscule pathways can be
galactic.
Take Action!
“Arm Fold”
Try this experiment to make fl exing your style a visceral experience.
Stand up without holding anything (this is the only time I will
instruct you to put down this book). Shake out your arms. Loosen
up a litt le. Now fold your arms normally, however you would typically
fold them. Hold this position for a few moments, noticing how
it feels.
Shake out your arms again. Now fold your arms with the opposite
arm on top. You may not wholly succeed; just do your best.
Shake out. For the third round, fold your arms normally.
Last chance to shake out—make the most of it, kick your legs,
dance around a litt le—no one is looking. Unless you’re in the library,
in which case you will be encouraging a wait list for this book, which
is fi ne with me.
For the fi nal portion of this experiment, att empt to fold your arms
with the opposite arm on top one last time.
82 NETWORKING FOR PEOPLE WHO HATE NETWORKING