Deep-dive: Connection

Part 1 of a 5 part series exploring my top values

I feel more alive this week! Let me tell you what connection had to do with it…

I’ve been advocating for the power of values for nearly a decade now. Identifying your top 3-5 values is intended to provide you with a compass for a more meaningful life, and guess what?

They do! (If you’re new to this, I have something for you at the end!)

Photo by Jamie Street on Unsplash

Values remind us what’s important, which can help us identify what decisions to make, what action to take, who to spend time with, and much more. Recently, I was invited to a quiz at my daughter’s school. I’m not a natural quizzer, but as I value connection I saw it as an opportunity to spend time with other parents and have some fun. I really enjoyed it and I’m definitely up for going again next year. Even though it wasn’t in my comfort zone, because it was in alignment with my values I nudged myself to do it and I’m really glad I went.

I have been deliberating recently whether I am an introvert or an extrovert. I love spending time with people and I love spending time alone. My friend said “maybe you’re half and half?” … I immediately accepted this because I do enjoy both.

For me, it all comes back to connection:

• Connection with others

• Connection with myself

Let’s dive in!

What is connection?

The word connection has been around since the 1600s, and we know from evolutionary biology and psychology human survival is more likely when we stick together.

There are 8 billion of us in the world. We are all human yet our experiences have an almost unfathomable range. We live one life on this glorious spinning planet!

It’s kinda nice to smile at someone else and remember: we’re in this together.

Now I know it’s not sweetness and light in the world (read: understatement).

However, there is something magical about connecting with another human in the 21st century…

Connection with others

In this digital age, there are more opportunities to connect online than ever. I was lucky enough to have a big dose of connection this week after I wrote a note which flew around the world 🌍

As a result I have spoken to authors, therapists, coaches, nutritionists, strategists, psychologists, podcast hosts… to name but a few!

I’ve really enjoyed chatting to everyone.

I felt in alignment with myself - the sparks of connection felt life-affirming! ✨

I spotted a chat in the comments about two psychologists meeting up for coffee!

It was acknowledged that being in private practice and being a solopreneur can be lonely so it was positive for people to see there are like-minded people out there.

From Australia to Thailand, from the US to the UK - we all connected 🤩

Each comment, each interaction, reminded me how universal connection is, showing that even in a digital space, we can find meaningful links to each other.

Also, I have a whole new range of drinks to try from people’s orders! First up is a peppermint mocha!

Connection with myself

I’m going to keep this section simple and say: I value my intuition and looking after my nervous system. This is how I stay connected to myself and my needs. My needs are important. PSA: Your needs are important! 📢

I am guided by my values, I listen to my intuition, and I practice self-compassion.

If there was playbook for my late 30s - this would be it.

Do I get it right all the time? No, definitely not.

But I can recentre myself quicker, pick myself up, and keep going!

Final insights

Life recently has really shown me how much living by my values, especially connection, can make life feel more exciting and meaningful. Whether it’s meeting new people online, stepping out of my comfort zone at the school quiz, or taking care of myself, connection brought happiness and clarity to my week.

Our values guide us towards what really matters. They help us make choices that feel right, even when they’re a little scary or new. By staying true to what’s important, life feels more balanced, fun, and fulfilling.

Resources

If you are interested in learning more about how values can help increase meaning in your life, check out these resources:

Russ Harris: Values vs Goals - An easy-watching helpful overview of the differences

Russ Harris: Values Checklist - A guide to support you identifying your top values

Find out more:

I hope you enjoyed Part 1 of this series, we’ll dive into another value next time!

Community question:

What is one of your top values?

Let me know if we have connection in common! ⬇️