In today’s fast paced world our attention is pulled in a million directions. From technology, to errands, to our family, and maybe even some attention directed toward taking care of ourselves.
We crave real connections with people, so we’re friendly …but is it enough?
In this video, I share a story that hit me like a brick and made me realize how often we are superficial in our engagement with others.
You’re never going to look at this question the same again!
For many, you may be doing this SEVERAL TIMES EVERY DAY!!
4 Ways to More Authentic Connections
If you find that you are in the habit of saying “How are you?” without meaning it way too often, try out these tips to ensure that you’re coming from a more authentic place.
- Say It and Mean It! – Take a quick pause to ask the question from a heart-centered place. Look them in the eye and ask them how they are doing. Most importantly mean it! They will feel your authenticity and may share more than the normal ‘Good.‘
- Lead By Example – They may be asking you out of habit, but that doesn’t mean you have to respond in the same way. When they ask you, give them an honest answer with a little detail. For example, “I’m great! I just had breakfast with my best friend and love spending time with her. How are you?” Your little story is going to make them pause and think before they respond.
- Ask a Different Question – Instead of the traditional, “Hi, how are you?” ask them “How is your day treating you?“. Their brain will have to process these extra little words and will be more likely to illicit an authentic response from them.
- Don’t Ask Anything! – Similar to the ole saying “If you have nothing nice to say, don’t say anything at all“, take the approach that if you really don’t care about connecting with that person, don’t ask them a question. It really is ok. The key is that you’re being authentically YOU and you’re being friendly. You’re simply not asking a question that you don’t want an answer to.
Take Action Now
Tell me in the comments below if you find that you have this habit. Start paying attention to others who ask you how you are. You’ll be able to read their authenticity in no time!
If you’re craving real connections and want to make changes, it all starts with you! Let’s hop on the phone and chat!
