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Everything Connects, Are You Connected?

Are you a connector? Everything in life connects. Every thought, habit, decision and action. Margaret Wheatley said it so eloquently, “Relationships are all there is. Everything in the universe only exists because it is in relationship to everything else”. Separate lines between us are only devised in our minds. Labels, groups and categories only divide us. The reality is, we’re all made of the same core stuff with individual variations. We all experience peaks and valleys, highs and lows and life has a tendency to ebb and flow. This too can cause a divide at times but it’s all a facade in our minds.

Regardless of our situation or environment, we travel with the forces of nature. It’s these forces of the universe that pull us through seasons and events just as our beliefs, principles and values do the same. Ignorance of life’s laws is not an excuse. We live in the information age. An age where we’re all easily connected. Together we’re a connected collective whole. Once we comprehend deeply, there’s no, “me and mine” collaboration becomes more apparent and can be utilized as the key to open the door to success and abundance.

Many at times, attempt to resist these events. We try to fight rather than allowing the natural forces to lead the way. We work on weaknesses rather than strengths, slip into being someone we aren’t or place ourselves in situations that conflict with us rather than fit. Yes, everything connects but not all side by side. Life is much like a puzzle where all the pieces have a purpose and place. It’s refreshing when all the pieces come together in a harmonic way to complete the whole picture. Doing this can make your life stronger, wiser and better. Understanding your environment is key. Sometimes we get so caught up in our individual situations we forget this. As John Maxwell states, “Everybody communicates but few connect”.

I squandered years trying to fight the tide. I drove things where I wanted to go without a clear cut navigational plan or foundation. I was demanding and directive. Planning, organizing, directing, controlling., these are all great skills in the proper environment but solely that, in the proper environment. And only with graceful interactions and softer tones can connection be achieved. Finding your voice and your “fit” is important. Understanding your environment comes through connecting with people. It comes from cooperation and collaboration. This is what helps us to understand our complete self. Working with our true nature is what narrows the gap between intention and external perceptions. This “character building” leads to higher influence and better leadership.

Years later through intentional growth, I began to realize that we all have a natural essence. Likened to waves, when the wave breaks down, its just water. It’s a chemical makeup of h2o but beyond this, it too has an essence or purpose. Fighting the tide is futile. Fighting riptides and flow can be exhausting. To the contrary, when we capitulate, when we stop resisting our natural essence, when we stop pushing and lean into discovery and growth, we can then utilize our strengths and the flow of the environment. This is the point at which one begins to understand the reality of the journey placed before us. This is when a foundation begins to form and things begin to flow. Only then, can momentum take hold toward a better future. Only then can we relax and let the current take us forward.

Yes, everything connects to all. As individuals we all have similar physical and chemical components but also have a natural essence and individual journeys. As Jim Rohn said, “Each of us needs all of us and all of us needs each of us.” This is what creates synergy. Unique brilliance is within us all waiting to be cleaved, polished and released. Our makeup, failed and successful experiences, travels and connections only enhance our uniqueness. We all have the ability to shine brightly. We all have the ability to contribute.

Some may swim with dolphins and others may jump out of planes. Some have children playing and others have parents moving through us. At different times we experience joy, happiness, peace. Other times we have burdens and tribulations to carry.

Let’s not forget we no not what some may be experiencing. Home, work, school can be beautiful or they can be challenging. But it mustn’t be a struggle. Fighting the tide is futile. On the other hand, understanding its affects can be magical. Awareness is powerful. It enhances our journey. It increases amplitude and makes life palpable and vibrant. Going with the flow, with the tide, makes life simple. It makes life worth living.

Simply put, this is a part of growth. It’s personal development. Intentional growth leads to understanding the makeup of who we are. This path allows us the freedom to become the best versions of ourselves and live life to the fullest. These are the keys that open the doors to complete comprehension of our purpose, beliefs, principles and values. Only then is the door opened to our legacy. Only then can we fulfill our hopes and dreams. Let go, experience the power of the ocean waves. Go with the flow.

Years ago I was drifting through life. I was coasting. I thought I had it all figured out. I thought I was hard working, intelligent and above average. Wow, ignorance is a killer. Ego is worse. What I was really doing was drifting. A simple case of not knowing what I didn’t know. Mark Twain said it even better, “It ain’t what you don’t know that gets you into trouble. It’s what you know for sure that just ain’t so.”

Don’t be a drifter, as in a piece of wood that lands on shore all dried up and alone. Life is about connecting. It’s best connecting at an authentic level deep below the surface. What are you doing to authentically connect with others? How are you growing? What are you doing intentionally to expand your perimeter of awareness and your “circle of knowledge”? What resources are you tapping into to use the power of flow to better ignite your future? Don’t miss the boat by being disconnected . Dream big, be present, stay focused and surround yourself with great people. Everything in life connects to everything. How will you tap into the power of your connections?

Brad A. Milford

Build Brilliance LLC

Building Depth of Character into Life and Leadership

Where uniqueness meets maximum potential.

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