The world moves at a blinding pace. The popularity of the Web and other new technologies means that many of our person-to-person interactions are occurring virtually. We say we’re connecting, but are we really?
I don’t think so.
Connection is more than the physical joining of two or more individuals, whether in person or over virtual airwaves. Connection is so much deeper. When we are truly connected we go the extra mile, we feel good about what we’re doing, and we experience a level of synergy that makes us infinitely more effective than we would be on our own. Now, that’s connection.
It’s that kind of deep connection that is desperately needed in our world today, especially when I think about the lives of our young people who are increasingly detached and disconnected from a life that truly matters.
I’ve been told that connecting at this level is impossible, or at best, too difficult. I disagree. In your everyday situations you can seek and find new, deeper levels of connection. But it does take your active commitment and conscious effort. The type of connection I’m talking about is definitely not for the passive onlooker of life! You must choose it.
If you’re not experiencing this deep level of connection, you can learn. Here are some of the actions to get you started.
- Be authentic. So many of us live in a world of smoke and mirrors. We see the facades people put up and wonder, Is that the real you? Be the change seeker. Be unlike others. Figure out who you are and then reveal it for the world to see. Your transparency is a touchpoint for a deeper connection with others.
- Listen. From early childhood through well into adulthood, we are taught how to speak. Mothers marvel at the first words spoken from their children. Bosses nod in approval (and maybe even reward you with a bonus) for delivering a sales presentation that closes the biggest deal in your company’s history. We talk – a lot. We don’t listen enough. Yet, it’s through our emphatic and open listening habits that we discover ways to truly connect with others.
- Celebrate differences. If we were all the same, what a boring world it would be! I revel in the unique differences I see. I may not agree with your perspective, but I’m open to hearing it. I can learn from you. I can understand you. I can connect with you. I can do all these things because I celebrate who you are, even if we’re not exactly the same.
From these actions, you will learn to see common ground, to express yourself openly, and to recognize what motivates others. When you truly connect, you experience a rich life beyond yourself. Ultimately, this breeds in you an attitude to be a difference maker and the world needs more of those kinds of people.
Connect and make a difference.
