Level Up Your Life & Career: The Hidden Power of Relationships

17 years of using LinkedIn! 17 years of staying connected, sharing value, and building relationships through LinkedIn. And I can tell you this – relationships built on integrity and genuine connection are the most rewarding investments you’ll ever make.

In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to lose touch. A new job, a new city, or a packed schedule can quickly create distance. But what if I told you that staying connected, even in small, intentional ways, could transform your personal and professional life?

For the past 17 years, LinkedIn has been my bridge. This platform has helped me celebrate milestones, meet new people, share gratitude, offer support, and nurture connections with people who have been part of my journey. From birthdays to promotions, to career transitions and new businesses, I’ve found so much joy in celebrating others. And more importantly, I’ve been able to show up for the people in my life—clients, colleagues, mentors, and friends. It's provided me opportunities to deliver projects, join non-profits, provided me with opportunities to present, collaborate with others and more.

Because here’s the truth: business is about relationships. And relationships require intention!

#DaleCarnegie Principle #4: "Become genuinely interested in other people."

For me, it’s always been natural. I’ve loved meeting and learning about people for as long as I can remember. I find so much fulfillment in connection, whether it’s deepening an existing bond or sparking something new. When you genuinely care about others—when you give without expecting to receive—magic happens. People feel valued, seen, and supported. And that kind of energy always comes back tenfold.

As we close out the year and enter the holidays, this is the perfect time to be intentional about the relationships in our lives. It’s an opportunity to show appreciation, support, and kindness to those who have impacted you—whether in big ways or small.

So, as we approach 2025, I encourage you to take your connections to the next level.

3 Action Steps to Nurture Your Relationships During the Holidays and Beyond

1. Show Up for Others (with Gratitude) The holidays are a natural time to express gratitude, but don’t let it end in December. Make sure you are doing this throughout the year. Sending a quick note to someone who has inspired you, helped you, etc. (Pro Tip: Put this in your calendar as a recurring meeting, so you are reminded)
2. Reconnect and Reignite Relationships can go dormant. Life happens. But rekindling a connection doesn’t have to be awkward. Just reach out and check in.
3. Share Value Consistently Relationships aren’t just about staying in touch—they’re about adding value. People remember the ones who help them grow, solve problems, or feel inspired. I love adding value, and if one post or message can change someone's thinking for the day or the week, I've done something that has made an impact.

Why Does This Matter?

Relationships make life meaningful, careers rewarding, and businesses sustainable. They remind us that no matter how far we climb or how busy we become, we never succeed alone.

I’m so grateful for the opportunities my work and having a platform like LinkedIn has given me ...to stay connected, celebrate others, and build lifelong relationships. It has helped me align with my purpose of serving others, and I genuinely believe that when you give without expecting to receive, you build a network of trust, loyalty, and mutual success.

As we move into the new year, let’s commit to being intentional about our relationships. Let’s celebrate people, reconnect with purpose, and share value in ways that inspire others.

If you’re ready to take the next step, start small. Reach out to someone today, celebrate their success, and tell them you’re cheering them on.

Here’s to a 2025 filled with connection, gratitude, and growth.

I’d love to hear from you! What’s one way you plan to nurture your relationships in the coming year? Drop it in the comments and let’s inspire each other to try new approaches!

#RelationshipsMatter #NetworkingTips #Gratitude #Leadership #LinkedInCommunity #Connection #ProfessionalGrowth