We are well into the second quarter of 2023, and the core Ellivate principle we’re focusing on is Connection:
Connection
At its core, business is about connecting, collaborating with and supporting other humans. Gain more clarity on your ideal audience, uncover more authentic sales and marketing approaches, and identify how you can better meet the needs of the people you most want to serve.
Connection is a fundamental human need. We all yearn for a sense of belonging – that emotional bond and sense of relatedness with other people. Beyond simply being a core human need, connection elevates our businesses and selves when we consciously tap into it.
Connection supports our emotional well-being, fulfilling our basic human need for social interaction, companionship, and support. When we feel connected to others, we are happier and more content with life. We can also navigate challenging times with lower stress and more resilience. An invitation: If you’re experiencing a challenge in your business or life right now, or you’re just feeling lonely or disconnected, reach out and connect with someone for support. Have the courage to be vulnerable and ask for what you need.
Connection cultivates personal growth and development. Each time we connect with another person, we gain the opportunity to learn something new and expand our perspective. When we are in community with people who share our values and passions, we are inspired to explore new experiences and reach new heights. An invitation: Set the intention to learn something new before each interaction with another person today. After each interaction, ask yourself, “What did I learn?”
Connection enhances our empathy and compassion towards others. When we connect with others on a deeper level, we develop a better understanding of their experiences, emotions, and perspectives. Not only does this help us better serve our customers, it helps us be better humans. An invitation: Intentionally connect with one customer today, and ask them one powerful, open-ended question. Listen first to understand, rather than solve.
Connection nurtures our interpersonal skills, such as communication, active listening, and conflict resolution. These skills are vital for building and maintaining healthy relationships, both personal and professional, and can contribute to improved communication, collaboration, and teamwork. An invitation: Read our Ellivate Alliance: Invitations to Engage. Set an intention to embody these in all your interactions today. Observe what shifts in your relationships.
Connection helps us build and maintain social support networks. A community like Ellivate can provide support during times of need, serve as a source of encouragement and inspiration, and provide a sense of belonging. An invitation: Make time and space to join us this month for our Ellivate Alliance Curiosity Session on May 11 and our special panel discussion, How to Leverage White Privilege in Business, on May 19 to connect with other brave women entrepreneurs!
Ellivate Alliance is built on, nourished by, and expanded through our connection to one another. Thank you for staying connected with us.
With deep love and gratitude,
