We can all use a little help from our friends AND we can provide it too. We are social creatures, and we rely on each other in a multitude of different ways. To be seen, to be heard, to contribute to and receive from.
For a long time, I felt I needed to be able to do it all on my own. I was fiercely determined to be able to stand on my own two feet without the need to rely on others. Noble? Perhaps. Wise? Perhaps not.
When we try to do it all on our own, there is the missed opportunity of being part of something bigger. I realised that to be the best version of me, I needed to connect with others. In helping others there is a feeling of worthiness that can make your soul shine. In allowing others to help you, you also allow their soul to shine AND in both the giving and receiving you are better for having had the transaction.
“Well-being cannot exist just in your own head. Well-being is a combination of feeling good as well as actually have meaning, good relationships and accomplishment.” ~ Martin Seligman
Photo courtesy of Claudio Schwarz Purzlbaum – Unsplash
While we may aspire for independence, life is so much more fulfilling when we share it with others.
The gift of connecting is soul filling and career nurturing. Connection enables us to be a part of something much bigger.
Choosing your style for connecting and the people with whom you connect is the key. Do you have a smaller friendship group that you prefer spending 1:1 time with, or do you have a large network of friends that you prefer catching up with in groups at a time?
Do you enjoy the breadth of connecting over social media or the warmth of a phone conversation? Be mindful of what works best for you and ensure you make time for it.
Either way, make certain you make time to connect with those people who bring energy, encouragement, and positivity into your world.
So too, in the workplace it is important to have a network of people that can support and nurture your career and development, just as you support and nurture others in theirs.
I still find it toughest to connect with people when I need them the most. But I have learned there is a mental and emotional price of withdrawing and a clear energy boost that can be gained by connecting. It is also easier to allow myself to reach out for a boost when I know I have similarly contributed to them.
I encourage you to consider five people that you can connect with on a regular basis. Give to them of your time, of your care and concern. And of your laughter, joy and encouragement. Build the connection, nurture the friendship, feel the trust. Know that you can be there fore each other as and when you need it. Be part of something bigger.
I’ll be posting every weekday in August. Follow me to benefit from my Adapt in August series and build your capability for adapting to change.
Keep well,
Vicki
My business is helping you with yours…
If you would like further information or to arrange some support in building this skill please don’t hesitate to contact me. I look forward to helping you build your success your way.
Yours in success,
Vicki
