I have been thinking about how to expand my connections with society. Based on my experiences, I feel that expanding my network in the world of hobbies (in my case, among my tennis friends) and expanding my network among work colleagues require completely different approaches.
The former is relatively easier. Tennis enthusiasts naturally share common topics and are already in an environment where mutual empathy comes easily. Since there is no need to be overly conscious of hierarchy, as long as one is not too shy, making friends happens quickly. However, since tennis is fundamentally a competitive sport, wins and losses inevitably occur within the community. As a result, people often bond more easily with those at a similar skill level.
Right now, my challenge is whether I can build good relationships even after playing against opponents in official matches. It becomes important to value courtesy and show mutual respect.
On the other hand, building relationships with work colleagues is much more difficult. In the workplace, conversations often involve people with conflicting interests. Factors such as whether a give-and-take or win-win relationship can be established and other complex environmental elements come into play. Hierarchical relationships are also clearly defined, and many people are conscious of them in their interactions.
Ideally, I would like to develop the kind of trust and reputation that allows me to communicate on equal footing regardless of the circumstances. However, since I have always struggled with social interactions, that ideal is still quite far from where I am now. I sometimes wish I had a natural sociability that allowed me to easily connect with anyone.
Canon's Diary 
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