It’s not just being close together in the same physical space!

You can create proximity through the time and effort you invest into a relationship too.

And in a time when physical closeness is more difficult than it’s ever been due to this pandemic… I believe it’s more important than ever that we prioritize proximity in every way we can!

Why?

Because I truly believe that our relationships are our greatest resource!

Whether you’re in a relationship business like I am or not… our lives are made better with better relationships. Period.

And right now, people are craving connection more than ever.

So, how can we prioritize proximity?

Well, my first choice is and always will be getting together in-person!

There’s something special and irreplaceable about being in the same space as someone.

Being able to feel their energy, interpret their body language, and just HUG each other is something I will never take for granted again!

But when getting together in person isn’t possible… that doesn’t mean we throw our hands up on connecting with each other!

There are SO MANY other ways.

When I was building my business, I had some teammates who were local to me, and I had other teammates who were all over the country (and globe)!

No matter where they were located, I made an intentional effort to spend time with them on a regular basis.

Of course I jumped on a plane or in my car to spend time with them in person whenever possible, but when I couldn’t, I made a point to get on the phone or FaceTime instead of just sending a text.

I sent birthday gifts and handwritten cards. I learned what they liked and disliked… what their love language was. I got to know their families.

When you really take the time and effort to get to know someone, it becomes a lot easier to connect with them!

And the more you become a student of people… the easier this gets.

I say this because we’re all wired a little differently! Some people really love spending quality time together. Others love getting gifts.

And part of building a great relationship with someone (whether it’s a personal relationship or a professional one) is learning how to connect with them best.

So, let’s talk practical tips and resources!

Some of my favorite resources for connecting with people and building stronger relationships:

I HIGHLY recommend John Maxwell’s Everyone Communicates, Few Connect as well as some of the various personality tests out there to help you get to know people on a deeper level.

The tests I’ve used most often are Strengthsfinder 2.0, the 5 Love Languages, and the color personalities!

I know it might seem excessive if you’ve never used these before, but it’s amazing to see how we all “tick” a little differently.

Practically speaking, here are some simple ways you can prioritize proximity when getting together isn’t possible:

• FaceTime or call to catch up instead of texting back and forth
• Send a handwritten card or small gift on birthdays or other special dates/occasions
• Remember the little details! What are their kids’ names? Their pet’s name? When is their anniversary?
• Learn more about their unique personality! What are their likes/dislikes/interests/hobbies?
• If you haven’t heard from someone in a while, reach out!

These are all small actions, but I promise you… they mean so much.

I truly believe that so much of my success in my professional life has come from my ability to connect with people and build great relationships.

And no matter who you are or what you do for a living, we ALL have relationships we can strengthen.

When is the last time you did something special to connect with your spouse?

When is the last time you did something special to connect with your child based on their unique love language?

When is the last time you went out of your way to show your teammate or co-worker that you really value them?

If you can’t remember, it’s time to do it!

These small actions don’t take much time, but they do make a lasting impact.

And I can tell you from experience that investing in the relationships that are important to you is ALWAYS worth it!