The Most Important Thing I've Learned About Connection

It’s a theme I see again and again with my clients – the desire for connection. For some, it’s connection to self. For others, it’s connection to family or partner. In some way, we all are looking for connection. I’ve been counseling others for thirty years, but recently I’ve found that there is more for me to learn about connection, too.

It’s hard to connect with anyone or anything when I’m not there for it. When was the last time I sat in stillness with myself? When was the last time I talked to my staff to visit, not to instruct? When was the last time I saw the cherry blossoms blooming in DC?

The past few years have been so busy that I’ve rarely taken these moments. There’s always something more to do, someplace else to be, something bigger to worry about. When was the last time I let myself exist completely in the present moment without any of these other thoughts?

As I’ve been realizing this for myself, I’ve made a conscious effort to pause for these moments. When I go to teach classes at my gym, I arrive a few minutes early just to soak up the atmosphere and chat with the members. When I have a break between clients, I chat with my staff about their lives outside of work. I’m taking a few seconds to notice the beautiful flowers popping up all around me – almost literally stopping to smell the roses.

And I’m discovering that, as I practice giving my complete attention to the present moment, my connections are growing stronger. I’m feeling more aware and at peace with myself. I’m renewing the friendships I have with my coworkers. I feel blessed to live in a world that can deliver such amazing displays as nature during springtime.

When we are present in the moment, we find connection. It sounds like such an easy concept, but it’s incredibly hard to put into practice. Our thoughts tend to focus on the past or the future, but the past is gone and the future isn’t here yet. This moment is here. This is the moment when we can form connections with others, our environment, and ourselves.

How can you be present in the moment today? Maybe wake up ten minutes early just to sit still and be with yourself. Maybe sit across from a friend at lunch and give them your undivided attention. Maybe take a short walk after work to look at all the greenery around you. Practice with small things, and you may find that small things aren’t so small after all.

Are you struggling to create connections in your life? We want to help by starting where you are and developing a personalized approach to health and connection. Contact us today to set up a free 30-minute consultation.