Improving Health & Happiness Through Connected Relationships
If you are like many people who get “busy” with life, do you wonder whether you are intentionally connecting enough with others? Whether it is connecting with your family, friends, associates at work or even connecting with who is making your morning coffee. Did you know your Social Life can help make you live longer? Have you seen the TED talk What makes a good life? Lessons from the longest study on happiness…
Yesterday I was delivering a Leadership Program for women and talked about the importance of connecting with each other and women supporting women. In turn, it is about how we can all inspire and support others to do more, be more and learn more. That’s leadership. This is why I write and share wisdom – for you. For you to be more, learn more and achieve more.
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We are social animals and our instinct is to find strength in numbers. We appreciate a small circle of people, but need larger circles as well. Our health and happiness are inextricably linked with our connections.
In today’s fast-paced and competitive world, making connections and networking is more important than ever. Whether you are an entrepreneur looking to grow your business, a student seeking career opportunities, or simply someone who wants to expand their social circle, building and maintaining relationships with others can be a key factor in your success.
In this blog, we’ll explore why making connections and networking is important and provide some tips on how to do it effectively.
Personal Growth Through Connected Relationships
Emotional Support, Health & Happiness
Connected relationships provide a source of emotional support that can help individuals navigate life’s challenges. When people feel emotionally supported, they are better able to manage stress and maintain their overall well-being.
People in connected relationships tend to be happier and more satisfied with their lives. Sharing experiences and creating memories with others can bring joy and fulfilment.It also has a positive impact on physical health, including a lower risk of chronic disease and a longer lifespan.
Improved Communication & a Sense of Belonging
In connected relationships, individuals tend to communicate more effectively and openly, which can improve their overall understanding of one another and strengthen their bond. They also provide a sense of belonging and social connectedness that can improve overall mental health and well-being.
Enhanced Personal Growth & Greater Resilience
Connected relationships can provide opportunities for personal growth and learning, as individuals are exposed to new ideas and perspectives through their interactions with others. When individuals have strong relationships, they are better equipped to handle challenges and adversity, as they have a support system to rely on.
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Professional Growth Through Connected Relationships
Opportunities
One of the most significant benefits of networking is the opportunities that it can create. By meeting new people and building relationships with them, you can gain access to new job openings, business partnerships, or even mentorship opportunities. Opportunities often come from unexpected places, and networking can help you be in the right place at the right time to capitalise on them.
Learning and Growth
Networking can provide valuable opportunities for learning and growth. By connecting with others in your industry or field, you can learn about new trends, technologies, and best practices. Networking can also help you to develop new skills, both through direct learning opportunities and by observing and learning from others.
Improved Visibility
Building a network can help you increase your visibility and become better known in your industry or field. By attending events, participating in online communities, and being active on social media, you can increase your exposure and make it easier for others to find you. As your visibility grows, you may find new opportunities come your way without even having to actively seek them out.
Support and Encouragement
Networking can provide emotional support and encouragement. Building relationships with others who share your goals, interests, and values can be a great source of motivation and inspiration. Networking can also provide a sense of community and belonging, which can be important for mental and emotional health.
Mutual Benefits
Networking is not a one-way street. Building relationships with others can benefit both parties involved. By sharing knowledge, resources, and connections, you can help others succeed and, in turn, gain their support and help when you need it. A strong network can provide a safety net and a source of strength when times are tough.
Now that we’ve explored the reasons why making connections and networking is important let’s look at some tips for doing it effectively:
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- Attend events and participate in online communities related to your industry or field.
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- Be active on social media and engage with others in your network.
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- Be approachable and willing to initiate conversations with others.
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- Follow up with people you meet and maintain regular communication.
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- Offer value to others by sharing knowledge, resources, and connections.
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- Be authentic and genuine in your interactions with others.
When we are part of a thriving community, we feel a sense of kinship, camaraderie and connectedness. There is a place and a role for each person, and group members feel they can bring all of themselves to their work and their team. There are high levels of trust and psychological safety in which people know others will have their backs and will give them not only the benefit of the doubt, but the space to apply their talents and develop new ones.
Within a strong community, people feel valued and all work has dignity. In addition, the needs of each member and the needs of the whole organisation are fully met. As Plato said, “The part cannot be well unless the whole is well.” Communities take care of their members and vice versa—because they are invested in the collective success of the group.
So, start building your network today and see where it takes you!
By Sonia McDonald – CEO Of LeadershipHQ and Outstanding Leadership Awards, Leadership Coach, Global Keynote Speaker, Entrepreneur, CEO, Mum and Award Winning Author.
Sonia is passionate about her voice. When Sonia speaks, everyone in the room feels like she is having a conversation with them as her audience will feel as if they are the only one in the room. She speaks from the heart. She is brave. She wants everyone to be brave. She is an impactful and motivational leadership expert and speaker that creates a life-changing experience. People call Sonia sassy, inspirational, real and a speaker who leaves a lasting impression. Her high-energy, authenticity and humour combined with actionable and practical advice, empowers her audience and provides them with great drive and confidence to take courageous actions and inspire great leadership in all aspects of their lives.
Sonia also is founder of LeadershipHQ and McDonald Inc. and is also a renowned and award-winning author, having written several of her own books, Leadership Attitude, Just Rock It! and First Comes Courage as well as being a regular contributor in The Australian, HRD Magazine, Smart Healthy Women and Women’s Business Media. She was named as one of the Top 250 Influential Women in the world as well as Top 100 Australian Entrepreneurs by Richtopia.
Through her leadership advisory and coaching work at LeadershipHQ, and founding the Outstanding Leadership Awards, Sonia is internationally recognised as an expert in leadership and culture, organisational development, neuroscience, kindness, and courage.
Sonia is also a full-time single parent and has a passion for women in business and teenage mental health. Sonia travels and speaks across Australia and Globe, and she is on a mission to building a world of great leaders and leadership.
