The First C---connection

    Enjoying people and friends in your life starts with being able to connect with someone.  It is not that hard, just takes a little practice.  I can teach you how to connect with anyone—anytime—anywhere.

Many of us have a lack of connection with others.  We tend to isolate ourselves and spend too much time alone.  

To connect involves taking a little risk—-being a little vulnerable.  We can go through life making shallow, common conversations with people,  and strangers who will then remain strangers.  Or, we can share our real selves, give them a glimpse of who we are and our humanity.  This will create an opportunity for a deeper connection—it’s our choice.

 Initiating a conversation and small talk are useful in connecting with others. I often initiate a conversation by simply saying something that comes from a thought or feeling I’m having in that moment.  This also helps with small talk and keeping a conversation going.

 However, sometimes it is helpful to use what is referred to as free information from the other person.  This can come from

—something they say

—their appearance—visual—what I see

— from information about their behavior—ex—accent, left handed

—and the location you are at—this one is often very easy to use

                    —weddings, concerts, parties, etc

Well, still living in my truck.  When people ask where I live, I say, oh I live in Silverado.  I don't mention that Silverado is a Chevrolet Silverado truck--haha.  Anyway, it's going ok and grateful I have a nice truck to sleep in each night.  Spending time in Seattle and while in other large cities I often see people just hoping to find a couple pieces of cardboard to sleep on that night----yes, I am grateful.  I actually had an interview with Boeing for an electrical job last Friday and so could be doing electrical work soon.