When we ask people what connection means to them, the responses are just as varied as the people themselves. For some, it is a quiet conversation with a trusted friend. For others, it might be creating something side by side, laughing with teammates, or feeling understood by someone who shares a similar experience. Our understanding of connection is shaped by our stories, our cultures, and the values we carry with us.
In this space, we are working toward a shared way of thinking about connection, not as surface-level interaction, but as something that fosters belonging and trust. Connection happens when we slow down enough to listen, when we show up with care, and when we create space for others to do the same. It is through these small yet intentional acts of reaching out that real connection takes root.
In this space, we are working toward a shared way of thinking about connection, not as surface-level interaction, but as something that fosters belonging and trust. Connection happens when we slow down enough to listen, when we show up with care, and when we create space for others to do the same. It is through these small yet intentional acts of reaching out that real connection takes root.
On The Diary of a CEO podcast (May 26, 2025), Simon Sinek described three elements that strengthen connections in communities: shared interests, shared values, and a sense of common good. This episode sparked some questions for me.
- What might these elements look like in practice?
- How might deeper connections help us to create learning spaces where relationships are nurtured?
- How do we ensure that every learner feels seen and heard?
Shared ValuesValues are the truths that shape how we act and what we stand for. They’re the invisible threads that guide our choices and define our learning culture.
In practice, a class begins the year by co-creating a set of shared values. Learners reflect on what matters to them, such as: kindness, curiosity, fairness, courage, etc. Together, they build a visual display of those values using words, sketches, and found materials. When conflict arises or decisions need to be made, the class returns to these truths to guide their actions. This shared foundation helps create a culture where everyone feels responsible for the way they learn and live together. Shared InterestsThese are the things we enjoy doing together. They give us energy, spark conversation, and create natural points of connection. In a learning environment, shared interests are often where connection begins.
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In practice, a group of learners form a lunchtime sketch club. They might all have different cultural backgrounds or home languages, but they come together because they love to draw. Their shared interest creates a space where friendships form, ideas flow, and belonging begins to grow.
Common Good
The common good is the purpose that brings people together to contribute beyond themselves. It’s the bigger "why" that connects a community, even when the members have different backgrounds, cultures, or roles.
In practice: A school community comes together to create a more inclusive environment. Learners, teachers, parents, and leaders co-design policies that support all learners, especially those from marginalized backgrounds. Their motivation is not just individual benefit, but a shared responsibility to make the space better for everyone.
In practice: A school community comes together to create a more inclusive environment. Learners, teachers, parents, and leaders co-design policies that support all learners, especially those from marginalized backgrounds. Their motivation is not just individual benefit, but a shared responsibility to make the space better for everyone.
Ways to Build Connection
When we find a connections that honors our values and culture, we feel safe enough to listen with openness, even to perspectives that differ from our own. This is the power of connecting with others.
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If you’re anything like me, you might be wondering how to explore connection through different lenses. Here are a few ways to begin on this website.
No matter what you choose to explore, let it be something that speaks to you and supports your community of learners. |
Ways to Connect Online
Once we begin to understand connection a little more deeply, there’s a natural urge to share that understanding with others. That’s part of what it means to be human. One thing that has truly enriched my own journey and helped me feel more connected has been joining online spaces with like-minded people who are also asking big questions and working toward meaningful change. Here are a few groups I’ve joined that have helped me explore what it really means to build a community that lasts.