Board-Game Socials: Rules for Not Being That Guest

Hey — a longer note on Board-Game Socials, as if you were moving onto my street next month.

Don't optimize this like a spreadsheet in week one. Get a workable version first. Polish after you've seen your real overtime pattern.

My blunt tip: One recurring night out beats seven maybe-invites.

Also: Time-cap karaoke or it eats the week.

Please don't keep falling into year-long gym pride in week one. I've watched that one burn weekends and goodwill.

When you're here, you'll notice an indoor game table. Let that be your reminder this is a living city, not a packing list.

If you only do three things

• Decide a default you can repeat tired
• Write the Chinese names / pins / chats somewhere searchable
• Revisit in thirty days — not every evening

When in doubt, choose the option closer to home. Travel friction compounds quietly.

The useful details show up in ordinary weather: rain, overtime, and the week you don't feel like being a high-functioning expat.

If it only works when you're energetic and the weather is perfect, it doesn't work.

Write me (or anyone further along) after you've tried one real version. Adjustments are easier with scars than with theory.

— someone a few mistakes ahead