#3 The Power of Connection
This week has reminded me just how much our lives are shaped by the people we meet along the way.
As this post goes live, I'll be on a train to Glasgow to catch up with a former colleague who has now become a dear friend. It feels rather fitting, because this week for me has been all about connection.
Earlier this week, I caught up with the lovely Helen Ball 💚who I met only recently through a networking group called KCC - Keep Calm and Connect, run by the fabulous Sue Richards. What a wonderful name for a Networking group, because that's exactly what it encourages us to do slow down a little, listen, build relationships.
Helen was as always incredibly generous with her time, knowledge and insights. We shared ideas, explored possibilities and had one of those conversations that leaves you with plenty to think about. It reminded me that some of the most valuable connections are measured by rich conversations, mutual encouragement and generosity that helps us grow.
And tonight I can't wait to catch up with another one of those special connections.
The legend that is Gail - my work bestie.
I think everyone needs one of those.
Always a font of seemingly endless wisdom and support, a huge kind heart and a wicked sense of humour - and I mean belly laugh wicked ! The photo below is Gail and I together at an Awards event in 2023.
As I reflected on all of this, my thoughts wandered back to 2020.
Who remembers standing outside our homes every Thursday evening, clapping for our incredible healthcare and key workers ?
Or joining Joe Wicks' morning workouts from our living rooms?
For a little while, complete strangers became one community. We encouraged one another , supported one another . Connected.
It made me realise that connection has always been at the heart of the best cultures I've experienced.
Whether it's in a workplace, a local community , a networking group . Or very special lifelong friendships that began because of work.
As I look back over my career, I realise I've been incredibly fortunate.
I've worked with some wonderful people, learnt from inspiring leaders and built friendships that have lasted far beyond the workplace. And this week in particular has reminded me that some of the greatest gifts in our lives come through the people we meet along the way.
