20. Chris Andersen - Maximise Life by Learning to Connect With ALL People

If you created 2 social events per month that attracted 30 to 100 mainly strangers, what would you learn about people?
If your intent was to earnestly chat and connect with the great majority of them, what connecting skills would you discover and develop?
This is the world of Chris Andersen, the well-known host of 'Beer with Mates' that meets monthly in the town of Brisbane, Australia. They are wonderful events. I know this for certain, I have been there and enjoyed Chris's hospitality many times.

The question I asked of Chris was 'why'? Why does Chris Andersen create such events?

His story of hiding his bi-polar from ALL but the few and climbing the corporate ladder is a story of confusion and uncertainty. Now, by his own admission 'he has never been in a better space'. He has learnt how to manage his bi-polar in social settings so that it actually works FOR him. His desire to grow and evolve has become a foundation for loving life and as for 'Beer with Mates', that too is an incredible learning ground. Already, this interview has impacted me greatly from taking my attention off-self in social settings to intentionally making the person with whom I am chatting, feel most valued. 

At one stage of his life Chris read a 'self-help' book per week. He was thirsty for information and power growth. Now that thirst for learning has a contrasting mission. He seeks to see the good and speak the good of all people. Now Chris's passion is simply his own happiness. He values his work as long as it is an extension of himself, not at odds with whom he is or desires to become. His is an intriguing journey already. Chris is just 37.

'Read these books' says Chris. They are game changers.

'Relentless' by Michael Jordan's coach Tim Grover.

'Social Intelligence' by Daniel Goleman and 'Mindsight' by Daniel Siegel are also must reads, but if by chance this episode stirs you to want to continue the conversation with Chris, then meet him at the SOAPBOX Pub in Gipps Street, Fortitude Valley on the first Friday of each month. You will be glad you did. I will most likely see you there too!

Bernie Kelly +61412982444
Chris Andersen +61424682636