October 11, 2024
Insights on building meaningful connections and creating more belonging for yourself and others.
“When nobody sees you, make others feel seen.” – Unknown.
This simple yet profound quote captures the essence of what it means to create your own happiness. In a world where it’s easy to feel invisible, the act of acknowledging others can – counterintuitively – make you feel visible. Belonging isn’t just about fitting in and receiving ephemeral accolades from others; it’s about taking charge of our own lives and making meaningful connections that affirm our existence and value.
In reflecting on the idea of belonging, it's clear that this sense of connection starts with small, intentional actions. The voice of loneliness can be loud, and will often shout at this juncture, “But I have no one to connect with!” This voice is seldom correct though, as we all interact on a daily basis with those who are helping us get our needs met (think school drop off, food delivery, apartment managers, front desk staff of any establishment). Whether it’s a kind word, a thoughtful gesture, or simply being present, small moments of recognition of these relative strangers can transform not only their day but also our own.
Beyond strangers, we can start to develop the habit and practice of consistently reminding people of their best qualities. This not only trains our own brain to see the positive, but helps us feel like agents of change and positivity in our own lives. Using our voices to uplift others can create a deeper connection than words on a screen ever could. When practiced daily, these habits form a ripple effect.
Here are some practical steps from the article "How to Create More Belonging for Yourself and Others":
Reach Out and Connect: Don't underestimate the power of initiating connections. Whether it's a simple hello or a deeper conversation, reaching out to others can create a foundation for belonging.
Practice Open-Mindedness: Avoid quick judgments and be open to understanding others. Appreciate the unique backgrounds and perspectives that everyone brings to the table, and make an effort to learn from them. This can lead to more meaningful and inclusive relationships.
Reflect on Values and Shared Experiences: By understanding your values and sharing personal stories, especially those of adversity, you can create deeper connections with others who may share similar experiences.
Be Welcoming and Provide Thoughtful Feedback: Start by being welcoming in new interactions. When offering criticism, do it wisely and constructively to maintain an environment where people feel comfortable expressing themselves without judgment or fear.
Listen Actively: Engaging in active listening can help you understand and appreciate others' perspectives, further strengthening the sense of belonging.
This concept is what we strive to cultivate at HiLU. Our platform is designed to encourage these moments of connection through personalized words of affirmation, helping you to build and maintain meaningful relationships. But beyond our app, the broader idea is to remind ourselves that in making others feel seen, we often find our own sense of belonging.
If this resonates with you, I encourage you to explore further. The Greater Good Science Center recently published an insightful article titled "How to Create More Belonging for Yourself and Others." The article delves into practical strategies for fostering belonging, offering valuable lessons that echo the importance of being intentional in our connections.
By taking small steps to make others feel seen, we contribute to a more connected and compassionate world—one that fosters a genuine sense of belonging for everyone.