We are hard-wired for connection

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The first time I ever heard the statement “We are hard-wired for connection” was from social scientist, Dr. Brené Brown in one of her famous TED Talks. It was a pivotal moment for me, because it helped me understand the underpinnings of so many of the success strategies I had been studying for years.

This understanding can help us to better understand ourselves and to build healthier, more fulfilling relationships—personal and professional—with others. Here are just a few of the ways:

1. Improving communication: Recognizing the need for connection enables us to be more empathetic and understanding in our communication with others. As effective communicators, we can be better leaders, better business associates, better salespeople, and better friends. Better communication leads to fewer misunderstandings and conflicts and more productive collaboration.
2. Enhancing well-being: researchers in physical, spiritual, and mental health fields all agree that positive social interactions and relationships are the foundation for happy and purposeful living and careers.
3. Boosting productivity: In the workplace or any kind of communal effort, strong connections are key to higher productivity and job satisfaction. The strength of these connections is directly tied to motivation and engagement.