My own experience is that if I’m not intentional about connecting at a deeper level it doesn’t happen on it’s own.
How are you?
No really, how are you doing? And, I’m sorry, but “fine” is not an adequate answer. The need to connect with each other is pretty big right now. Obviously, this is important because we are beginning to emerge from a global pandemic and many of us have felt somewhat isolated for the past year. Video calls are great for transfer of information, but not as great for feeling that sense of belonging that is life-giving.
We need to do this at home too. Sometimes, when we are with our family members all the time, we assume that we are emotionally connected. My own experience is that if I’m not intentional about connecting at a deeper level it doesn’t happen on it’s own.
Try this experiment. Ask your spouse, your kids, or your best friend, “How are you doing? What are you thinking about lately? What are you worried about? What are you excited about?” Two good things may happen. You may find out some really important stuff. And, the person you are asking will feel that you care. Both those things are really good when you’ve been isolated.
Trying this at work may be different in that you may or may not have a “work culture” of checking in with each other. But, regardless of how intense the work environment is, people will appreciate you taking the time to check in.
Imagine if you are able to convey to your boss, peers, or employees that you care about their dreams, goals, or fears. It is important to do this in an appropriate way and at an appropriate time of course. Being a Leader of Impact is partly about caring for other people, and making the time and effort to check in is definitely worth it.
