We all want to make real, lasting connections with people. So why not start with your very own neighbors? It can feel a little intimidating to reach out to someone you don’t know, maybe even a little awkward. It did for writer Shannan Martin too. But despite her status as a card-carrying introvert, Shannan has found that connecting with the community around her in small, low-stakes ways has given her more joy than just sticking to a polite wave. Emily and Shannan talk about some easy ways you can get to know your neighbors or loose acquaintances a little more (Guess what? You don’t have to feed them dinner!). Because at the end of the day, once you push past your feelings of discomfort, you’ll discover that the gift of connection is definitely worth it.   Thanks to our episode sponsor! (+ codes to help you save ?)   ROCKET MONEY | Cancel unwanted subscriptions – and manage your expenses the easy way! – by going to https://rocketmoney.com/simplified    * * * GET Audio Episodes Ad Free + Early Access to New Episodes https://apple.co/3ICMUmk READ the Show Notes https://emilyley.com/podcast    SHOP Simplified Planners & Products! https://emilyley.com    GET Emily’s New Book! https://emilyleybooks.com/sure-as-the-sunrise    * * * SUBSCRIBE to The Simplified Podcast! Apple Podcasts | http://bit.ly/Simplified-Apple  Spotify | http://bit.ly/Simplified-Spotify  Stitcher | http://bit.ly/Simplified-Stitcher  YouTube |http://bit.ly/Simplified-YouTube    * * * Let’s Be FRIENDS! Simplified: Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/simplified/  Facebook |https://www.facebook.com/simplified  Twitter | https://www.twitter.com/emilyley/  Pinterest | https://www.pinterest.com/emilyley/  YouTube | http://bit.ly/Simplified-YouTube    Emily Ley:  Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/EmilyLey/  Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/emilyley