In his book The Power of Habit, Charles Duhigg describes three steps to forming a new habit: We pick a “Cue” (or reminder), choose a “Reward” for when we are successful with our new behaviour, then execute the “Routine” or in simple terms, we practice the behaviour to...
Day 29 Connection Challenge: Be Interested, Not Interesting
When we listen, we often are trying to think of the next clever question we can ask. Or worse, our minds are wandering on to new topics. Practice active listening today. Focus on really understanding what is being said and try repeating back what you hear. #becurious...
Day 28 Connection Challenge: Check Your Body Language
Nonverbal communication makes a big difference in how people perceive and relate to you. Uncross your arms. If you keep your posture relaxed, inclusive and open, your team will respond by being more positive, aligned and productive. #beinclusive #connectionchallenge
Day 27 Connection Challenge: Take a Deep Breath
Before you head into your next important meeting or conversation, take a deep breath, in through your nose and out through your mouth. In addition to providing other health benefits, it will release the tension in your neck and make you appear less aggressive....
Day 26 Connection Challenge: Smile More
Smiling lowers our heart rate, reduces stress levels and boosts our endorphins, putting us in a better mood and eliciting smiles from those around us. #begiving #connectionchallenge
Day 25 Connection Challenge: Ask a Naive Question
Toddlers ask their parents an average of 100 questions a day. But by adulthood, we have nearly stopped asking questions altogether. In school and work, we are often rewarded for having the answer, but actually questions not only increase creativity and innovation,...
Day 24 Connection Challenge: Make an Introduction
Do you know two people who would benefit from knowing each other? Making introductions can both help those in your network and create value. First ask permission, then take the time to craft an email sharing the unique strengths of each person and explaining why you...
Day 23 Connection Challenge: Ask for Feedback
Asking for feedback may make us feel vulnerable, but it also can increase trust levels in an organization. Opening up also may accelerate our development: When we share the skills we’re focused on building with others, research says we improve more quickly....
Day 22 Connection Challenge: Stop for Lunch
How often do you eat at your desk or on the run? Or skip lunch altogether? Eating lunch not only stabilizes our blood sugar levels and increases our energy, it can also provide time for socializing with our colleagues. Find someone you haven’t talked to properly in a...
Day 21 Connection Challenge: Share Something Real
Many of us feel we should keep our personal and work lives separate. But sharing what’s going on for us personally can give needed context to our colleagues and make them feel comfortable sharing in return. Vulnerability increases trust, and ultimately also improves...