3 reasons to add forgiveness into your networking

Today, let's delve into a topic that might seem out of place in a discussion about networking but is fundamentally crucial: forgiveness.

I know, Zvi, stop reading all those crunchy self-help books. But keep reading, I’ve seen how this makes a noticeable shift in how we show up, and the results that come from it.

When we talk about building connections, the phrases "know, like, and trust" often come up. These are deeply emotional, highlighting the fact that at the core of all our professional interactions are our very human, emotional selves.

The Emotional Weight in Our Networks

Consider this: if guilt over not having reached out to an old client is gnawing at you, you're more likely to continue avoiding them. If frustration is simmering because Nancy never replied to your last message, it's a barrier to sending another. And if a family squabble has left you seething, it's your work and your ability to connect that suffer.

Forgiveness as a Tool for Emotional Clearance

Incorporating forgiveness into our routines, be it through morning journaling or group discussions, can be incredibly liberating. Asking yourself, "Who or what do I need to forgive today?" isn't just about letting others off the hook; it's about freeing yourself from the emotional baggage that hampers your ability to connect, create, and be productive.

Why Forgiveness Matters in Networking

1. Clears Emotional Clutter: Forgiveness helps you move past personal grievances, allowing you to focus on nurturing your relationships.
2. Fosters Openness: Letting go of past slights makes you more open to re-engaging with people, even those with whom you've had misunderstandings.
3. Reduces Stress: Holding onto grudges or guilt elevates stress levels, which can be detrimental to making meaningful connections.

Your Action Plan

Next time you're journaling or reflecting, ask yourself about forgiveness. Is there a colleague you need to forgive for a perceived slight? Or perhaps you need to forgive yourself for a networking opportunity you missed? Acknowledge it, forgive, and notice how much lighter you feel, ready to tackle your networking with renewed vigor. Just to be clear, I’m not saying you need to shoot off an “I forgive you” text out of the blue to Nancy just because she didn’t respond to your coffee invite. That would be weird. It’s more that the emotions between our two ears are clouding us. It’s in our best interest to get them out of the way.

To the liberating power of forgiveness and the doors it opens,

-Zvi

Thanks to Nate for first inviting me to add “Who do you need to forgive?” as part of my morning routine.

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