What gets in the way of us connecting with others?

I think some form of fear is at the bottom of our disconnection with others. During my lifetime, I went through different sorts of fear that kept me silent when I would have liked to reach out to others. Some of these fears are:

Not being pretty enough
Not being popular enough
Not being interesting
Not being smart enough
Not knowing what to say
Not feeling comfortable
And so on

As I've lived longer and had more experience, I have come to realize that most people have these same fears. Just a smile and a welcoming word are usually enough to begin a connection.

Sometimes it takes awhile before the other's fears are overcome enough to trust you. They may not believe you are being sincere,, or they may hold grudges that you have nothing to do with. Keep smiling. Be kind.

Connecting can be very simple. We do not have to plunge into intimacy on the first meeting. Just project an openness and sincerity that lets the other know you are available. You will gradually know how deeply you can connect (or not).

Marylyn