"We must catch up before Christmas." How often do you hear that in the last weeks before Christmas, when there is no actual time to do anything about it?! How many times do you say it, when you know there is no way you can really make it happen and you have a guilty feeling that you said the same thing to them last year? Sometimes this is just a social nicety we observe when we know full well we don't really want to see someone and that they, in return, have no intention of seeing us. Fine, fine, we all know the game. There are however probably a heap of people you genuinely do want to see and for one reason or another the social connection has not been there.
The quality of our life is largely defined by the quality (and quantity) of our social connections and interactions. They give our life richness, purpose and meaning. Given that is the case, it doesn’t do any harm for us to put additional intentionality and priority round it today as part of our Best Summer series. Riddle me this:
Who haven’t you seen in 2018 that you really would like to? Who lights up your world? Who is worth going out of your way for? Who do you actually want to see before Christmas?
Who isn’t physically near you but is incredibly important to you? Can you plan a trip or surprise them with a Facetime or Skype call? Who has made a positive impact on your life in 2018. Why? How do you want to acknowledge that?
Who do you want by your side at Christmas? Who do you keep saying you must get together with, but don’t? Do you really want to see them? If so, sort it. If no, stop saying it.
Is there anyone with whom you want to clear the air or make amends in 2018?
Is there a group thing you can host or attend to connect with three or more of the above people? Can you organise a catch-up that is not just coffee? A walk in the bush? Swim at the beach? Surf? Playpark with the kids? A shared activity builds memories and connection. Not all connection needs to be one-on-one and time intensive.
This is a great reflection exercise, to make sure you include all the people who are truly important to you. Your best summer will only be the best summer when you have the best people at your side.