Networking: The Unexpected Self-Care Ritual You've Been Missing ??
Joy Williams
Founder & CEO of SoulJoy Wellness - Soulful Self-Care & Wellness Expert ?? Igniting Joy in Corporate, Community & Spiritual Spaces | Speaker | Author | Executive Coach | Trainer | Program Developer
Last night, I dragged myself to a networking event. That’s a little exaggeration. The event was around the corner from my office. I had planned to only stop in for a few minutes. As it turns out, I decided to stay much longer. Sometimes these gatherings drain me even if I hide it well. But something magical happened.
I met a startup founder with an incredible story of resilience. As she shared her journey of overcoming setbacks to build her dream company, I felt a spark ignite within me. Her passion was contagious, her insights invaluable. Sharing her faith and how she now had to share her story was incredible. I left feeling inspired, energized, and... wait for it... refreshed!
That's when it hit me: Networking isn't just about career growth—it's a powerful form of self-care. Here's why:
1.???? Inspiration Boost: Hearing others' stories can reignite your own passion and motivation.
2.???? Perspective Shift: Fresh viewpoints can help you see your challenges in a new light.
3.???? Emotional Support: Connecting with like-minded professionals reminds you you're not alone in your struggles.
4.???? Knowledge Exchange: Learning new things stimulates your mind and keeps you growing.
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5.???? Confidence Builder: Each interaction hones your communication skills and boosts self-assurance.
For my fellow networking-averse friends, here are some tips to make it more enjoyable:
Remember, self-care isn't just about bubble baths and meditation (though those are great too!). Sometimes, it's about pushing yourself out of your comfort zone and opening up to new experiences and connections.
So, next time you're tempted to skip that networking event, reframe it as an act of self-care. You might just surprise yourself with what you gain!
What's your take? Has networking ever unexpectedly boosted your well-being? Share your stories below! ??
#NetworkingAsSelfCare #ProfessionalGrowth #WellnessAtWork #SoulJoyWellness
Empowering Leaders & Teams to Succeed | Product & Program Senior Manager | Leadership & Career Development Coach | ICF Member | Trust at Work? Practitioner | Dare to Lead? & Co-Active Trained | Organizational Development
2 个月I sometimes wonder whether networking needs a rebrand. It’s essentially relationship building, which is related to our fundamental need for connection and belonging.
Program Development | Strategic Planning | Training & Development | Team Building
2 个月I love this perspective. I hadn’t thought about it before, but I have dragged myself to events and been glad I did when I left. Another strategy I use to get me in the door, is to go with a friend. We don’t necessarily stay attached at the hip when we get there, but it adds a level of comfort in a room potentially filled with strangers.
Founder @ The Macfarlan Group @ Leadership After Dark Nonprofit/Social Impact Leadership Consultant
2 个月This. is.excellent.
I help high-achieving mompreneurs move from best kept secret to the go-to in their industry thru strategic video podcasting | Podcast & Business Strategy Consultant | Author | Speaker | Mommy Mogul Mastery??Podcast Host
2 个月This is so good! Joy Williams what really stood out to me is the confidence boost that comes with networking. We spend so much time, head down, focused on client deliverables. But, getting out there, meeting people, learning about them, speaking on our area of expertise, is so refreshing.
Project Portfolio Manager, Project Management, Strategist and Sustainability Champion
2 个月Nice perspective and good advice