Earlier this month I traveled 1,847 miles to Anaheim, Calif., to attend Expo West—the massive natural and organic products trade show—along with nearly 70,000 other people. And I found myself attending Naturally MN’s Mingle @Expo West event with a sizable contingent of Minnesotans who are CPG founders, retailers, creatives, and industry pros. A great group, and also couldn’t help but think: this was quite a journey for a bit of casual afternoon networking with fellow Minnesotans.

This curious phenomenon was brought to my attention by fellow Minnesotan Lauren Mehler Pradhan of Tesser Advisory, who observed, “Badass humans need to convene.” That statement launched a broader discussion about the importance of connecting with other human beings. Convening, it turns out, is not optional—it’s primal. Like cows in a pasture, we have a natural instinct to gather. Doing so provides protection, comfort, and what I like to call “social warmth.”

Yes, “social warmth.”

My father, the late Mr. Jim Keller, used to say that an outgoing Norwegian looks at your shoes while talking to you, and a shy one looks at his own. So, you could blame your Norwegian heritage for any social reticence—but what about the Italian branch of your family tree? In truth, the need to be around other human beings often conflicts with how uncomfortable and socially risky it feels to stand alone in a crowd.

And of course, there are plenty of perfectly acceptable excuses for avoiding networking:

1. I’m an introvert. Meeting people and having conversations drains my energy. I’d rather stay home and read a book.
2. I don’t have time. My job, kids, and other obligations must take priority.
3. It’s not in my job description. I worry that networking might look bad to my employer.
4. I’m not naturally good at it. I’m better at my real job (or insert any other skill set here).

Let’s examine the flip side of each point:

1. Introversion vs. Extroversion: Most of us fall somewhere on this spectrum. If you lean introverted, remember that any networking event likely skews extroverted—meaning, you may not have to initiate conversation. The extroverts will do that for you. Simply nod and listen until your “one percent extrovert” peeks out of its shell. And if you’re an extrovert, remember to hone your listening skills. Ask questions, and draw out your quieter counterparts.
2. Time Constraints: Life is busy, but we tend to prioritize what matters. We’ve seen people bring their (older) kids to events so they, too, can learn how to connect. We’ve also seen couples turn a networking event into a date-night kickoff. When you make meeting new people a priority, you can often find creative ways to fit it in—perhaps once a month.
3. Job Security: Building a successful career is akin to being a trapeze artist. You take risks—offering bold ideas, standing up to a bully in the office, or telling the truth to power. If you slip, you’ll need a strong, reliable network as your safety net. Any employer that discourages you from meeting new people might deserve immediate consideration as a “former employer.”
4. Networking as Insurance: Another gem from my late father: “Your banker will lend you an umbrella when the sun is shining; take it for when the rain starts.” Networking is far easier to do—and far more beneficial—when you’re gainfully employed. It’s a form of professional insurance and a skill best developed while you still have a job. Think of it as one more arrow in your quiver, alongside creative writing, leadership, research, or any other expertise. Grab your umbrella and start networking now, before the forecast changes.

If you’re still reading and haven’t signed up for an event yet, consider the kind of connections that can make life a little better. Introducing two people to each other is a simple act that can improve their circumstances—or brighten their day.

As an example of how we like to connect two interesting people: Nate Garvis, former head of Government Affairs at Target, founder of Naked Civics, and Karl Benson, co-owner of Cooks | Bellecour with his “dramatically better half,” Marie Dwyer.

My Message to Both: “You two need to know each other, not only because of what you’re each planning to do (your adjacencies will help you both), but because you both lead from the heart. And, for Karl’s sake, Nate is like ‘creative brain cocaine’—without the messy white powder. You’ll both thoroughly enjoy the conversation.”

Karl’s Response: “I so appreciate Aaron being my Creative Mule. That trek to Frogtown to get my fix was starting to take its toll. Emails are so much more convenient! Pleasure to meet you, Nate.”

Nate’s Response: [Awaiting the creative response, which I’ll happily share at a future event.]

If you spot me at an upcoming gathering, feel free to ask about Nate’s reply. Meanwhile, why not plan your own get-together, schedule a coffee with someone new, or sign up for an event that includes networking? Getting out of your routine can be a highly creative and enjoyable experience. It’s worth putting yourself in a place tomorrow, where you can build a net that works for you—your own network. Why wait a year for an event in California to come around?