The Power of Connection
Reaching out is important now more than ever
The COVID-19 pandemic has emphasized more than ever the basic human need for connection. I don’t know about you, but in addition to missing my friends and family, I actually. miss the energy I get from meeting new people and learning about their journeys. And that’s coming from an introvert!
I was reminded today about how powerful connection can be when I attended a virtual Women in Business event from our local town Chamber of Commerce. Like I said, I’m actually a bit of an introvert so attending events often weighs heavy on my shoulders. Which is ironic because events are a huge element of marketing, but I digress.
As part of the event, they asked everyone to share what they do and what they were most proud of in 2020. The energy in the “room” was contagious. These women didn’t let a little pandemic stop them. From starting new businesses - everything from real estate development to a law firm to events management and retail shops - to having their first children (and returning to a virtual work environment), getting married, and even starting grad school, these women were inspiring and inspired. You could tell that everyone was empowered by hearing one another’s stories and genuinely cheerleading for each other’s success.
The pandemic has been hard, no question. But like everything, it has silver linings too. It has shown many of us just how resilient and creative we can be. I’ve seen many people turn their “passion projects” into their full time jobs because they had the time to do it from being laid off. Many surprised themselves … they discovered that something they thought was impossible was possible and they finally have their dream career. Some are doing dual careers as they slowed down to part time work and now have a better balance with another gig they love.
The power we have inside of us can go dormant sometimes. We forget what we are capable of until we have no other choice. The pandemic can be considered a bit of a restart on many levels - personally and professionally. It’s like going to college after high school - you have a chance to reinvent yourself and be whomever you’d like to be.
It’s also reminded just how important our connections are and who our closest allies are. It’s given us a chance to nurture the best connections and turn away from those that were not serving us well. Embrace the change and continue to push yourself to make new connections, even if it is on a video call. With the right people, the energy can be just as compelling as it is in person. New viewpoints, experiences, and opinions can keep us motivated to keep pushing through the difficult times. We’re alone but we don’t have to be lonely.
How have you changed or nurtured your personal connections this year?
