Yesterday a simple sentence was delivered to my text message inbox that left me feeling connected, engaged, and empowered. Because of these words, I felt a sense of belonging and a deeper connection with the bright light that shines through all of us. These words may have been simple, but what they communicated was complex and deeply enlivening. The intention behind the words left me feeling like… 

I matter

I am seen

I’m on the right path

I’m fully supported 

These words have the potential of changing a person’s life, giving them more courage and faith in life. They can be spoken in a variety of ways, but there’s something special about the ordering of my new friend, Dorothy’s, words. After watching my TEDx Talk, Dorothy texted… 

“I want to know more about you.” 

When was the last time you said (or heard) some version of those words to a non-romantic other? 

If my hunch is correct, you probably cannot easily recall. 

We are all so incredibly beautiful and gifted. The better we can see and feel the truth of who we are, and know that we matter to others, the more courage we have to take the risks necessary to let ourselves be (and feel) inspired and engaged in life.  

Imagine what would happen in your community, at home, and in your work if you started using these phrases every day… 

Tell me more about you.

What inspires you?

What has your life experiences taught you?

What matters to you? 

If you choose this as your daily practice, you cannot help but build an unshakeable foundation for courage, enthusiasm, and innovation all around (and inside) of you. The people around you will care more, you will feel more connected/less alone, and you’ll get the privilege of gaining wisdom beyond your imagination. 

Recently, I engaged in this practice with another new (young) friend. We had stumbled on the topic of forgiveness when she said made a comment that startled and stunned me. Here’s what she said… 

“In order to forgive, something inside of you has to die.” 

“Wait, what? Say more… what has to die?” I inquired. 

There was something important and insightful in those words, and I might have totally missed it had I not wanted to know more about what her life has taught her. 

“Your expectations,” she said, plainly. 

Yep, that’s it, I thought, grateful for the way she summoned up the past decade I spent studying and writing about forgiveness. 

A simple sentence… 

“I have to know more about you.” 

These words communicate… 

I don’t know everything.

I am a learner.

I want to learn with you.

You have something to offer me. 

By making it a daily practice to ask others about their experiences, inspirations, and perspectives, we can cultivate an unshakeable foundation for courage, enthusiasm, and innovation. It is through these connections that we gain wisdom, deepen our understanding of ourselves and others, and find the courage to take risks and pursue our passions. So let us all take the time to connect with those around us and build a community that fosters growth, compassion, and joy.

Here’s to your greatness,

Misti Burmeister

Misti Burmeister equips leaders and teams with skills and resources to empower and engage across generations. For nearly 20 years, she has facilitated communication that results in trust, increasing engagement and productivity across generations. Make sure your communication is coming across the way you intend, visit https://www.MistiBurmeister.com