Many immigrants can relate to this situation. My advice would be to improve your English every day, join Toastmasters, and find a mentor. These steps will help you slow down, build confidence, refocus your goals, and network more effectively.

Set realistic goals, such as engaging with a few key professionals rather than attending every event. Leverage online platforms like LinkedIn for strategic outreach. Schedule networking into your routine without letting it consume your time. Engage in authentic conversations rather than transactional interactions. Give yourself breaks to avoid burnout, and remember that networking is a long-term process, not a one-time sprint. Shifting your mindset to view networking as relationship-building rather than pressure-driven will make it more manageable and rewarding.

To navigate the overwhelming pressure of networking, I focus on quality over quantity. I set realistic networking goals, targeting meaningful connections rather than trying to meet everyone. I approach networking with a genuine mindset, aiming to build relationships based on mutual value, not just career growth. I prioritize my time by engaging in relevant events and platforms where I can learn and contribute. By maintaining a balanced approach, I manage expectations and reduce stress, ensuring networking becomes a strategic tool rather than a burden.

I set realistic goals, such as engaging with a few key professionals rather than attending every event. Leveraging digital platforms like LinkedIn helps me network efficiently without overcommitting. I also integrate networking into my routine organically, engaging in genuine conversations rather than forced interactions. Lastly, I remind myself that career growth is a marathon, not a sprint I pace myself, take breaks when needed, and focus on building authentic relationships that align with my long-term goals.

Even neuroscience tells us that our brains do not hold on to all neuron connections, it discards some and strengthens others depending on their usefulness to us. As we are not as smart as the natural selection process developed over millennia, the best we can do is cherish contacts that cherish us and let nature take its course.

I’ve been there—feeling like you have to attend every event, connect with everyone, and constantly engage online. But here’s what I learned- quality trumps quantity. Early in my career, I skipped a major HR conference and instead had coffee with one experienced professional who became a lifelong mentor. That connection gave me more insights and opportunities than hundreds of surface-level interactions ever could. Networking isn’t about being everywhere—it’s about being intentional. Focus on building a few genuine relationships. Your network is your strength, not your stress.

Start by redefining networking as building genuine connections, not a numbers game. Focus on quality over quantity—identify a few key events or individuals aligned with your goals. Set realistic expectations, such as aiming for one meaningful conversation per event. Prepare a concise introduction and thoughtful questions to ease interactions. Leverage online platforms like LinkedIn to connect on your own time. Remember, networking is a long-term effort; it’s okay to take breaks to recharge. Lastly, shift your mindset: view networking as mutual value exchange rather than self-promotion. By pacing yourself and staying authentic, you can network effectively without feeling overwhelmed.

If networking feels like a pressure, you're doing it wrong. Real; networking happens when you're curious to learn more about people and their growth scope in life to truly thrive.

Focus on building genuine connections rather than transactional relationships. Start small reach out to one person a week for a casual chat. Use platforms like LinkedIn to engage thoughtfully with content in your field. Attend events with specific goals, like learning something new or meeting just one person. Prioritize quality over quantity and take breaks when needed. Remember, networking is a long-term game. You're not behind, you're building steadily, at your own pace.