Looking to get out and be social? Want a fun activity to try? We’ve got you covered with our monthly activity article.

Each month we will highlight a different activity or event for grown-ups to get out and try. The idea is to get a group of people together to socialize, have fun, and try something new.

Current events, research, open dialogue, and a group of friends makes for a great night in. So this month we’re highlighting getting together and coordinating a Discussion Group.

You’re likely already discussing what’s on the news; current world events, global issues, and other topics of interest with your peers. Creating a discussion group can take this even further with more in-depth research, differing viewpoints and opinions, coupled with an enjoyable and educational night out with friends.

We recommend creating a group of around six to ten people in order to get a broad enough discussion going while keeping the group small enough for an in-depth discussion on each person’s research. Plan to meet every month or two, and rotate between who hosts the evening.

The discussion group can be as formal or informal as the group decides. Use the first group meeting to choose a list of topics that can be added to as you go. Also, go over any ground rules you’d like set; with topics ranging from politics to health care, lobbyist groups to the economy you want to ensure all viewpoints are heard respectfully.

From those we’ve spoken to who are part of a discussion group, we’ve found that there isn’t much of a need to break down who researches what part of the topic. Everyone seems to gravitate to different aspects, even the couples. For example, one person may concentrate on the political aspects, while someone else looks to the social impact of the topic, another takes on the economic implications, environmental factors, and so on.

Discussion groups provide the opportunity to thoroughly research a topic, and have an open dialogue with a varied group of people who all bring their own research, thoughts, and opinions on the topic. It is a great way to stimulate your mind while keeping socially engaged.