I’m just back from a long overdue in-person gathering of facilitators from 22 countries and my cup is full.
You probably don’t need me to tell you about the importance of social connections to our wellbeing. A robust network of strong, medium and weak ties are critical to people’s happiness. (I was going to link to articles here to prove this point, but there are honestly too many. Ask ChatGPT). Loneliness is bad for us.
What I can contribute to this conversation is a reminder that you need this, and your organization likely does too.
You first:
There are three elements that help people assess and access connection more easily:
- Fun
- Encouragement
- Belonging
What’s really fun for you? Write down 3-5 things. (Honestly, do it. Hard? Easy?) Chances are your list involves other people. And there’s also a good chance you haven’t done these things in a while. Go do them!
Next, who’s in your pit crew? Who are the people that unfailingly and sincerely cheer you on? Make a list. Have you connected with them enough lately? Reach out.
In what settings or communities are you seen, heard and valued? Where do you find that magical balance of being stretched and at ease at the same time? Maybe you’re overdue for some time to recharge with people who give you a strong sense of belonging. (Cue the Cheers theme song: “You want to go where everybody knows your name…”🎵 ) Book something.
Now for your organization:
I am increasingly hearing organizational leaders speak to the need to strategize collectively with their peers. To build partnerships for greater impact. To work at a system-wide scale.
They also need people in their “Cabinet” who can give them wise, candid advice.
So this is your nudge to initiate that conversation or that collaborative that you know you need.
(Want to talk more about this?)
Connection. It’s number two in our series of five cravings that we may not recognize we have. (Our first was Challenge. And if you’re note sure where you currently sit on these five, check out this quick diagnostic to find out.)
And before you go, I have two opportunities that I’m excited to tell you about.
First, at our Wiser by Choice book club this month, we’ll be covering Charles Duhigg’s new book called Supercommunicators. He’s an author I watch, and communication skills are key to strengthening connection, so how could we not have a look? The group is free until June, there’s no reading required, and we’ll send you the recording if you can’t be there live. Nothing to lose!
Second, I’m delighted to announce the next in our series of immersive coaching experiences. COSTA RICA!!! It’s a nine-day, small group adventure in February 2025. We’ll visit three gorgeous locations (volcano, cloud forest and beach), overlaid with structured and informal conversations to help you reimagine your next chapter. I hope you will choose to invest in yourself and gift yourself something big to look forward to next year. Changing your scenery helps to change your perspective.
Only 16 spots are available, and it promises to be remarkable. Initial details are here and more information will be added as it becomes available, or contact me to reserve your spot. We’ll be hosting information sessions with the tour company and me if you’d like to chat about it. Book early and you’ll be entered into a draw to win an additional excursion or spa treatment. (I’m bursting with excitement over this — can’t wait to see who’s coming with me!)
So that’s the big news — thanks for spreading the word and reserving your spot!