Nothing in Common? How to Create Connection

⏰ 10 minutes each. Not a minute more!

Last night, I attended virtual 10-minute interviews with my son’s teachers.

Now, you might think that 10 minutes is skimpy - especially virtually.  And if your kid is doing ok in general, which mine is, then you might even think “what’s the point?”   I know I did.

🌈 But something magical happened.  I ENJOYED these meetings! 

The teachers were prepared, and so was I. They had thoughtful things to share with me about my favourite person in the world - about what he’s doing well, as well as ideas to improve. 

Most importantly though, we experienced CONNECTION!

Afterwards I got to reminiscing about my first career as a middle school French teacher.  At first I dreaded the parent meetings.   I was so young and inexperienced!  (proof - see photo!) 

I was:

👉 Intimidated by these typically older, busy-looking parents

👉 Stressed about making a good impression 

👉 Anxious about keeping the meetings to the allotted time.   

And yet, even then, the magic was on my side.   Connection happened! 

Once I realized these parents only wanted the best for their kids, which was what I ALSO wanted, my fear fell away, and trust grew in its place.

🍏 What if we approached all conversations we’re worried about with a focus on the objectives we have in COMMON with the other person?