What I Learned . . . . . Be Intentional

This is the first in a series of articles on what I have learned/am learning and the impact it has on me. What I have learned may be something technical in nature, it could be something that helps me personally. Every day is a learning opportunity and many things aren't necessarily things that have been learned, but reminders that have been made.

The most impactful thing I have learned, or been reminded of over the holidays is the importance of life and friendships. Over the holidays we lost on our our classmates from high school. Now, let me preface this by saying I came from a very small high school, I graduated with 58 kids and to say that we all knew each other is an understatement, we more than knew each other, we grew up together. Highs, lows, you name it in a way we all did them together.

As time has passed we have gone our separate ways and we lost touch. Many of us are friends through social media, so there it is kind of a superficial connection, this brought to light how disconnected I have become from so many. I have "liked" and reacted to posts, but when was the last meaningful conversation? I regret not sending quick notes to her just to say hello and catchup, I regret not putting in the effort.

My sadness over losing my friend will stay with me forever, she was a kind and beautiful soul who cannot help but be missed. This has served as my reminder to be more intentional with the people around me. Make the phone call, send a quick personal text, grab a lunch, whatever it is, but be intentional. I spent last night on the phone with the very first friend I made in college, we talked for an hour. It had probably been over 2 years since our last conversation. That is 2 years of life we have missed sharing.

Professionally, I need to be intentional as well. Make sure I am communicating. Let the people around me know they have value. It is the small things that simply reaching out can do. Small touches that can have a big impact, can nurture, can encourage, can make a change and make a difference.

What I have learned for 2020 is to be intentional in my personal and professional relationships.