Creating and maintaining strong meaningful bonds
There are many things we need to show up for: work, the bus, workouts, dentist appointments. These are all things that are important. But what do they all have in common? They are obligations.
We would like to talk about something different—showing up from the heart. We believe that being there for others is one of the best ways to maintain deep meaningful relationships.
By definition, If something “shows up,” it can be clearly seen or noticed. There is comfort and closeness in being seen or seeing someone. It is like a magnet that draws us together. And best of all, it is free!
We don’t always love lists, but we put together a short one with a few ways to really show up:
- Direct your attention to someone. Really listen, turn off all the other stuff and just pay attention.
- Shine a little light on someone. Think about when you walk into a dark room, you need to turn on a little light to see what is in there. We tend to see others' strengths more easily than they can. So point them out.
- Ask yourself, who in my life needs my contact? Close your eyes and think of someone in your world that might need your contact. Once you have the person in mind, act immediately. Send a text, picture or give them a call. Just say hi. It only takes a minute.
- Feed your friends and family. Emotionally, share your ideas, fears, stories, successes. And also literally feed them, make cookies, invite them to lunch, drop off a little soup or Moodify Oatmeal. It has been said, people who share food share their heart.
If you are so inclined to find other ways to show-up, check out this guide from Buzzfeed, they have more ideas for you.
Remember, life is not a spectator sport, we need to participate in it.