A FRIENDSHIP group based in Leamington has launched a new initiative inviting the newly widowed to meet for just three minutes.
Heart of England District Oddfellows has devised the ‘Three Minute Carrot Method’ which is geared at helping out those who may have lost their confidence to attend events for just three minutes instead of a more daunting hour.
The technique was suggested to the group by clinical psychologist and author, Dr Jennifer Wild, who was asked for her advice on ways in which people can rebuild social confidence after losing a partner.
Yvette Glover, Branch Secretary of Oddfellows – a not-for-profit group that brings people together in the community for social activities – said: “Trying something new can be nerve-wracking, especially if it’s the first time an individual has really put themselves in a social setting without having their partner by their side.
“We’d obviously love people to stay for the entirety of our events, but we also recognise that people need to move at their own pace. So, if you decide that three minutes is enough for you that day, that’s totally fine. If you want to stay longer, then that’s great also”.
Dr Wild added: “The Three Minute Carrot Method gives you permission to stop or leave something early. After your three minutes you can decide if you are going to turn around and go home, or if you are going to carry on. You’ll find, more often than not, that you will carry on. But by giving yourself permission to leave, it relieves the pressure”.
Annie from Kenilworth has been a group member for a year.
She said: “Going along to meet a new group of people is easier said than done, especially when you are used to having someone support you. But once I got over the hurdle of first introductions any concerns just melted away, the Oddfellows couldn’t have made me feel more welcome”.
And Oddfellows is holding a coffee morning at Boston Tea Party in Leamington on Monday (July 25) from 10am to 12pm where newcomers are welcome to come along and give it a try.
Anyone wishing to attend or to receive a local events diary can contact Yvette on 01926 424112 or email [email protected]
Further information about Oddfellows can be found at oddfellows.co.uk/firststeps
