Jumping straight into a crowded party or large networking event is like trying to run a marathon without training. Instead, begin with what psychologists call “exposure hierarchies”—starting with less anxiety-provoking situations and gradually working your way up.
Consider beginning with:
- One-on-one coffee meetups with someone who shares a specific interest
- Small gatherings of 3-4 people centered around an activity
- Structured events where interaction is optional (like workshops or classes)
- Time-limited social events (knowing there’s a clear end time reduces anxiety)
Slide Thru makes this approach easier by allowing you to filter events by attendee count. Look for the “Small Gathering” tag to find more intimate meetups where conversation feels less overwhelming. The platform’s detailed event descriptions also help you know exactly what to expect, eliminating the fear of the unknown that often fuels anxiety.
