A Month of Cultivating Connection

Join me for a month of deeper connection, beginning February 1.

Hello friends,

In my most recent newsletter, The Decision-Making Rollercoaster, I asked readers a question, and I want to thank everyone who took the time to respond. The results are in, and the clear winner is: More Connection.

This result resonates deeply with me, as connection is one of my top three values. It also sparked a curiosity that I couldn’t ignore:

• Are we born valuing connection?

• Or do the adults in our lives shape this value by modeling it for us as children?

Some studies suggest that we’re born with certain predispositions, like empathy, compassion, or fairness, which form the foundation for values like connection. Even very young children show an innate inclination to comfort others or share, hinting that some aspects of connection may be inborn.

However, the environment and role models play a significant role in shaping how these tendencies evolve. We absorb lessons from the adults around us through observation, repetition, and reinforcement.

For me, my mom was the ultimate role model for connection. She lived and breathed connection in every aspect of her life, creating a blueprint that shaped my own values.

I think of the small-town coffee gatherings she shared with her close-knit group of friends. Almost daily, they’d come together, kids in tow, sipping coffee, exchanging stories, and keeping up with the latest community happenings—perhaps with a sprinkle of gossip!

Then there was the Curling Club, a winter hub of activity. The sound of brooms sweeping across the ice was as constant as the snow outside, and bonspiels were a cherished tradition. Beyond the sport, it was a space for laughter, camaraderie, and meaningful connection.

Ah, the Curling Club. It’s also where I—well before the legal driving age—borrowed my mom’s car keys to sit in the car and listen to the radio. That harmless intent turned into a spontaneous driving adventure, connecting with friends along the way. Though it wasn’t my proudest moment, it reflects what my mom always modeled: connection enriches life, even in unconventional ways.

Her community involvement extended beyond friends. My mom participated in numerous organizations, finding purpose and belonging while fostering a deeper sense of connection.

One phrase she often said at events stays with me to this day: “Kathy, get up and mingle.” At the time, it felt like an annoying nudge. But now I see it as a gift. It taught me to step out, engage, and build relationships—lessons I’m forever grateful for.

Reflecting on all of this, I see how my value of connection was nurtured and how it’s become central to the work I do. It’s what drives me to ask the same question I posed in my newsletter: What do you need most right now?

Your responses inspired me to choose Cultivating Connection as a theme for February.

Here’s what you can expect:

1. Weekly Connection Snacks
   Every Saturday, I’ll share a collection of connection ideas. This will include stories and photos of how I’m connecting, prompts for you to explore, inspiring quotes, and more.

2. The Kitchen Table
   On Friday, February 21st, join me for a 90-minute Zoom gathering designed to deepen your connection journey. This thoughtfully curated experience will bring together like-minded women for meaningful conversation and connection.

I’m so excited to journey through this month of cultivating connection with you.

Warmly,