Staying connected

Through changes in life and work

The first piece of mail that arrived when we completed our move to Texas came from the grandkids we left behind– who adorned the outside of the envelope for everyone in the household to enjoy.

Receiving this card prompted a FaceTime call, followed by more engagements throughout the week. A reminder that making these relationships a high priority is possible.

Before leaving, we made a commitment to mail notes back and forth – and now it’s our turn to keep the connection open.

This week one of my clients unpacked the anticipation of losing relationships with her team and leadership after getting a promotion that would mean an end to her daily contact with these close friends. As she discussed the impact of losing these connections, she revealed what was most important.

“I’m realizing that I was very intentional about building these relationships, and now ?I feel like I’m walking away from them.”

“What if these relationships don’t have to end?” I wondered.

Our conversation quickly shifted, as she recalled the years of COVID separation with her team and how she stayed close to those who mattered most. She knew exactly what she wanted to do.

Three ways to stay connected through changes in life and work

Here are some ideas on maintaining relationships, when the routine of life and work and proximity are thrown up in the air.

1.??????? Schedule a regular time to check in.

Instead of relying on best intentions, decide when and how you want to remain connected.

2.??????? Mix things up: text/call/write.

Experiment with new ways to reach out to demonstrate the importance of your key relationships.

3.??????? Be open to going deeper.

Distance can provide you a fresh way to get to the heart of the matter, now that you don’t have the luxury of face to face connection.

My takeaway

Creating a routine in a new place takes time. One of my priorities has been to unpack boxes, hang up artwork and put away dishes. While that leaves me with a momentary sense of accomplishment, I know there’s something missing.

Connecting with the people I miss and who mean so much to me.

Knowing that what you focus on you strengthen, here’s how I’m dealing with what’s missing in my life. It’s time for me to respond to the amazing note we received from the grandkids, return the calls/texts from dear friends wanting to know how we’re doing, send condolences or congratulations where appropriate and let colleagues know how to reach me.

I’m reminded that interactions with family, neighbors, friends – no matter where they live – creates a sense of belonging and community within me.

I am a part of all that I have met.

Lord Tennyson