In the age of the internet, in the same ways that it has made research easier, it can contribute to difficulty in turning thought into action. Everyone has had a moment of immobilization in their quest for community involvement (or on a lower scale: new friend making). It doesn't matter how old you are. You still need buds.

So many options are recommended as to how to spend your time-- so many from the comfort of your own home-- that it can be tempting to opt for convenience over the novelty of true experience.

So, let's narrow your focus a bit. When you're thinking "let's get out there" What are some considerations?

1. Cost
   In this economy, gosh don't we all love free? Not just free, but a balance of worth for considerate cost. We are willing to pay for what we believe to be valuable. Human experience is valuable. Memories are valuable. Find your threshold/budget for such things so that you don't have to compromise achieving them. Once you know what you actually want, you'll cancel on yourself a lot less.
   
   
2. Convenience/Distance
   You don't want to be rushing from work for something that you don't care enough for, right? Even if you really wanted to learn salsa, picking that studio in Scarborough might not be the best bet. Remember: everywhere you go, you will have to come back.
   
   
3. The False Equivalence of Punctuality and Enthusiasm
   It's a nervous world we have come to live in. Forgive yourself. Being late or missing a class/event does not mean that you have to give up on the whole endeavor. People have lives and unexpected circumstances and it's more than OK. The book club will not hate you forever. As a member of a free community book club, I swear.
   
   
4. Interest
   What is it you like to do? Are your interests seasonal? What's nearest to you? I mentioned before about library community events. You might not realize how many public access libraries are in your city. There are 18 library branches in Mississauga alone! Don't worry, Caledon, even you have three!
   
   Social Threshold
5. I'm a small gatherings type of person (hence the libraries). That focuses my interests and options in an effective way. But, if you're looking for a more hustle and bustle sort of atmosphere, city run festivals are fairly common through most seasons. Summer is always especially busy, but autumn and spring hold their own. Once you know the vibe you're looking for, you're more likely to enjoy your test runs.

In short, I'm not trying to be Google. I'm trying to be a motivational force to encourage you to Google. Mill around. Risk looking at a community bulletin board (they are especially common in cafes and bookstores)! Don't be afraid to try new things too. If something seems effective to only 3/5 or 4/5 considerations... maybe it's worth a shot after all. You never know where you'll end up!