“Last minute, no pressure” invitation

Most of us start the new year with the intention of connecting more with friends and loved ones. However, life gets in the way. Gone are the beautifully orchestrated dinner parties, cozy movie nights, and long-delayed phone dates, replaced by busy schedules and “I wish I’d planned this earlier this week.” What if it feels like an obligation? What if no one shows up? Before you know it, weeks or even months can pass.

Enter “Last Moments, No Pressure” (LMNP). This is an easy way to connect without overthinking or stressing.

No pressure even at the last minute

A friend recently told me that her goal last year was to host a dinner party once a month, but she never hosted one. Life can get busy, and even with the best of intentions, planning ahead can feel overwhelming. That’s where LMNP comes into play.

Source: Mark Crews/Unsplash

LMNP is a casual, short notice and you are not expected to say yes. You no longer need to strive for perfection or overthink, and it becomes as simple as saying, “I’ve been thinking of you, and here’s our chance to connect.” Here’s what it sounds like:

• “I’m going to walk the dog in an hour. May I join you? LMNP!”
• “Invitation from LMNP: We have a big pot of soup, please help us eat it!”
• “I’ll be at X Coffee Shop in the next few hours. Stop by if you’re free, LMNP!”
• “LMNP: I’m going to this concert tomorrow. If you’re interested, get your tickets!”
• “I’m going on a business trip for the next few hours, so please contact me if you have time!” LMNP! ”

The advantage of LMNP is its immediacy. “I was thinking of making some plans” or “Let’s get together sometime…” are replaced by “I’m doing something right now. Please join me if you’d like!” It changes to. When you explain this acronym (“LMNP = Last Minute, No Pressure”), it immediately resonates. Who wouldn’t want a last-minute relationship? My friend Conor coined this phrase a few years ago and it has now become my go-to phrase for staying connected in my friend group.

LMNP and the US Surgeon General

For a long time, the U.S. Surgeon General I felt stressed The important role of connection in supporting mental and physical health. in his book togetherhe emphasizes. loneliness It reminds us that meaningful connections don’t have to be complicated, they can be as simple as a potluck. Forget about fancy meals, elegant decor, and embossed invitations. What really matters is creating frequent opportunities to connect, and that’s where LMNP excels.

Guide to LMNPing

I used to overcomplicate hosting, juggling calendars and attendance deadlines, and cooking everything myself. I was often left exhausted and disappointed, like when I stared at my fridge full of leftover crème brûlée after a series of cancellations. LMNP changed everything. Now I host potlucks regularly. It would be great if some people came. If it’s a crowd, even better. Here are some tips when considering LMNPing.

1. Start with what you’re doing anyway: A walk, a coffee run, a yoga class, or even just running errands.
2. Keep it simple: Choose flexible activities like potlucks, no-reservations restaurants, or “get your own ticket” events that can easily be expanded without relying on advance planning.
3. When we say “no pressure” we mean it: Let them know it’s okay to say no. This makes every “yes” more meaningful.

New Year’s Connections, One LMNP Invitation at a Time

This year, focus on presence, not perfection. It’s much better to catch up now than countless plans that never come to fruition. Send an invitation to LMNP this week, whether it’s for a walk, coffee, or errands. You might be surprised at how often people say “yes” and how much it means to them that you ask.