1. Don’t overpack. This applies to suitcases and schedules. Travel light, and give yourself free time to enjoy unexpected adventures.

2. Leave early. Seriously, leave very early for anything that you plan to do in NYC. The subway likes to arrive on its own time and NY traffic makes car transportation difficult.

3. Spend time alone. Explore the city on your own. Sit and people watch. Reflect on your day. 

4. Talk to strangers, when it feels right. Obviously, be smart about talking to people you don’t know. But, initiate a conversation with the woman sitting next to you on the bench in Central Park. You might learn that she works in the Holland film industry and is filming the next season of the Dutch Bachelor.

5. Smile at people. New York can make people tough, but it doesn’t mean that we can’t show kindness to each other. A small gesture can change a person’s day.

6. Network, even when you’re outside of the office.

7. Look up. I know it makes you look like a tourist in the city. But, every now and then, look up to get a new perspective.

8. Try new things. New food, a new direction, new experiences. 

9. Listen. Don’t be the one in the room who talks the most. Listen to others’ insights and choose your responses carefully.

10. Be frugal. Remember that money and time have a limit. Don’t waste them on things that don’t make you happy. Save for the experiences that will change your life for the better.

Emily Foster.

05.15.17