Human Energy

I heard a discussion today about the power we have to transmit energy to one another. Before you begin thinking I have gone off the deep end let me explain. We are wired to be connected. We are constantly seeking cues from our environment and most importantly from each other. Ever notice a herd of deer or a flock of birds? They are very attentive to the emotional cues of each other. At the first indication of fear...the birds fly away as a group. When you enter the room or a conversation - are you transmitting negative energy-bringing the group down or positive energy that is uplifting? More people are watching and keying off your "vibes" then you may realize. There is also something amazing about false energy...people can pick up on it. In general, we have an amazing antenna that can pick up on transmitted energy and decipher real from false. I am focusing on providing a positive energy wherever I go...one that encourages, uplifts, and brightens the lives of others.

Connections - The Secret To HS?

I just spent some time this weekend re-connecting with many of my classmates from high school. I loved high school! What a great group of people. I am not just reflecting back through some rose colored glasses. School can be great...and it was.

So what made it that way? The Center For Disease Control completed a comprehensive longitudinal study of over 36,000 adolescents and report the following: “Of all the protective factors examined, school connectedness was found to be the strongest protector against substance use, school absenteeism, early sexual initiation, violence, and risk of unintentional injury (such as drinking and driving or not wearing seat belts).

- School connectedness was second in importance, after family connectedness, in protecting adolescents from emotional distress, eating disorders, and suicidal ideation and attempts.

- Research also shows a strong relationship between school connectedness and educational outcomes, including school attendance; staying in school longer; and higher grades and classroom test scores.”

Connectedness…that seems to be the secret sauce. We all need to have that personal sense of belonging. It begins with that core principle that drives our organization – unconditional positive regard.

In our digital world we have an opportunity to make contact to so many people. But contact is not connection. Caring, accepting, listening, understanding, is needed to go beyond mere contact to meaningful connection. I hope you are able to say, like me, “I loved high school.”

http://cdc.gov/healthyYouth/AdolescentHealth/connectedness.htm