Connection That Doesn’t Cost You Yourself
“Connection is why we’re here. It gives purpose and meaning to our lives.
– Brené Brown
By now, some of the initial momentum of January may have settled. We’ve started letting go of what drained us and keeping what actually helped. The next question naturally arises: what connections do we want to cultivate this year?
Connections are the threads that weave life together—relationships with our children, students, partners, colleagues, friends, and even ourselves. And just like habits, not all connections deserve to continue in the same form.
Here’s the truth: some relationships can energize us, and others can quietly drain us.
Some connections teach patience, empathy, and growth. Others keep us replaying old patterns or weighing ourselves down.
Carrying forward the connections that truly matter is about intention.
It’s about noticing who and what makes life better, and choosing to show up for those relationships in ways that actually work.
Connection isn’t always about constant communication, surface-level niceties, or performing for others.
It can be the teacher who notices your child’s effort and shares encouragement.
It can be a friend who checks in without judgment.
It can be your own commitment to listen and be present, even when life feels heavy.
The best connections are those that align with your values, respect your limits, and allow everyone involved to grow—not just endure.
Practical Ways to Carry Forward Meaningful Connections
1. Notice who lifts you up.
Spend a week observing interactions—online, in person, at school, at home.
Ask yourself: Which relationships leave me feeling energized or inspired? Which leave me depleted?
2. Invest intentionally.
For relationships worth keeping, small consistent gestures are more powerful than sporadic grand efforts.
A short message, a shared laugh, or an honest check-in often matters more than a perfect plan.
3. Align effort with reciprocity.
Some relationships require more effort at certain times—and that’s okay—but consider whether the effort is balanced over the long term.
Carrying forward connections isn’t about keeping score—but about mutual respect and care.
4. Don’t ignore self-connection.
Your connection with yourself sets the tone for all others.
Take moments to check in with your feelings, needs, and boundaries. Strong self-connection improves your ability to show up for others.
5. Release connections that no longer serve.
It’s realistic: not every relationship belongs in the new year.
Some may have run their course, while others may need distance to thrive. Letting go isn’t failure—it’s clarity.
Not every connection will last forever—some last only a season and that’s not a flaw.
But when you choose intentionally, you carry forward relationships that strengthen you, support your growth, and create a more connected life—personally, professionally, and emotionally.
In 2026, make connection intentional. Let go of what drains you. Nourish what matters. Show up with clarity, not habit.
Because connection, like habits, deserves conscious choice—not default.
This week also includes a short reflection guide to help you take stock of the connections shaping your days. It’s not about fixing relationships — it’s about noticing which ones nourish you and which ones may need more intention or boundaries.
👉 Download the Connection Inventory and reflect on the relationships you want to carry forward.
If you also missed the previous series about Wintering and maybe reread the series with fresh eyes—you’re welcome to start here or you can start from the beginning of this series.
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From leadership teams to full faculty, we offer customized workshops that equip educators to integrate SEL and Educational Neuroscience seamlessly into everyday teaching.
💡 Let’s partner to build stronger, more connected school communities—together.
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