Over the past two weeks I have (quite happily) found myself in conferences, fashion shows, fundraising events, parties and in the stands of the US Open. In each instance, I made a conscious decision to turn my individual sign to “Open.”

I went to a party alone, confident I would make a new friend, and I did- she was the founder of the magazine whose launch party I was attending. I made my way to Brooklyn for the 3rd time ever, and got involved in the Twestival bowling competition- helping contribute to the $15K they raised for a local camp. I came with one friend and by the end of the night had 6 new ones.I stood in line at the Y-3 show and befriended the fashion editor from Forbes and then chatted with the guy sitting next to me from MTV.

In the last two weeks I have exchanged business cards with at least 40 people- thank God for those little Moo cards! It did take energy and motivation, but it was easier than I thought. Like anything, once you have done it once it is always easier and fear subsides. So, I networked it up! A little timid at first, but with the right mind set because it really does come down to who you know, and a strong network is invaluable.