Connection

Connection: the fourth key pillar

…to cultivating a good life

Connection is the relationship between oneself, with others and with ‘the whole system’, or life in its entirety.

We like to think of connection has having three elements:

  • Awareness
  • Communication
  • Engagement

A very appropriate acronym: ‘ACE’ !

Awareness

Have you ever noticed that when you are doing quite familiar and repetitive
tasks, like driving your car, your mind is often miles away thinking about something else?

This way of operating is often referred to as automatic pilot mode. Mindfulness
is the opposite of automatic pilot mode. It is about experiencing the
world that is firmly in the ‘here and now.’  Mindfulness means paying attention in a particular way; On purpose, in the present moment, and nonjudgmentally.” Jon Kabat-Zinn

Mindfulness has been proven to improve well being, physical health and mental health. It also helps us to become more aware of our thoughts, feeling and actions in any given situation; aiding better communication.

Communication

Purposeful communication has a positive intention – a thoughtful interaction with a desirable, positive consequence.

Good communication should be carefully thought-out, demonstrating flexible thinking and behaviours. It should be skilful, using the power of language to achieve positive results.

Engagement

Humans are naturally sociable beings, relying on networks and relationships as part of a bigger system.

How does each of us contribute to ‘the greater good’? Learning to play to our strengths helps us to help ourselves, to help others and to play a positive role in life in the widest sense.

Connect with us! We can help. For an informal discussion please get in touch.

How do you connect? Some ideas to get you thinking

Q. What is your intention when communicating? What choices do you have? What methods do you use to engage others?
Q. Thinking about your network of relationships, who do you turn to as confidante, or to solve a problem, or to help you find the resources you need? When you’ve spoken to them and shared your thoughts, how do you feel? Do you know how they feel?