We can all thank the past year for forcing us to find new and creative ways to connect. Even for those of us who have a love/hate relationship with putting ourselves out there and trying new things, getting online has been key to staying connected during strange times. And like everything else in our lives, learning and finding ways to show up online and engage with other people is something we’ve just had to figure out!
As much as I like being online, it hasn’t always been easy for me to see myself on a screen. It’s totally out of my comfort zone! But you know what? Over the past two years, I’ve been conquering that fear to connect with clients and friends online. The pandemic thrust me into sharing videos and photos of myself even more! I work hard every day to push through my insecurities so I can engage with all of you.
Here are my favorite ways to connect with people online!
Connect With People on Social Media
My favorite way to connect with people online is through social media, whether I’m sharing images, videos, quotes, or anything else! I especially like that I don’t necessarily have to share content with me in it – I can be authentic and keep things real, but it makes me feel less vulnerable, you know? I love sharing aspects of my personal and professional life because when you’re a survivor, and you’ve been through the shit I have, it feels good to pay things forward. I share things to give you hope and motivation, and to create a space to feel safe.
I share everything from challenges to victories, my failures, and lessons learned. I’m proud to share my growth and success and to show you that the life you want is possible! When I post to social media, I want to show you that we can get through life’s challenges together. Let my experiences help you find your path to the life you want.
Showing Up On Virtual Meetings
Virtual meeting software like Zoom and Google Meet create great spaces to connect with people online! Whether you’re talking with one person or a whole team, it’s so nice to see people’s faces. Right now, so much work is being done remotely or from home, and virtual meetings are an excellent way to connect even when we can’t easily sit down in person.
I love face-to-face conversations, even if it’s on my computer monitor! The more I participate in meetings online, the more uses I find for virtual get-togethers. My daughter and her fiance live in St. Louis, and I can’t tell you how much I enjoy seeing them (and my grand fur-babies!) for our weekly chats. Virtual meetings are also a good way to catch up with my business peers for a casual conversation, instead of in coffee shops or restaurants like we used to do. I’ve been able to spend more time with more people because I’m not losing time on the road!
As much as I prefer seeing friends, family, and colleagues in person, I’m so grateful to have this communication platform, or I wouldn’t get to see my towing friends across the country!
Joining Facebook Groups
Facebook groups are such a fun way to connect – I love them! Getting involved with Facebook groups help me learn about specific interests and topics on my time. And if there is a Facebook live happening that I won’t get to see as it happens, I like that I can check it out when I have a chance.
Most of the Facebook groups I belong to are full of like-minded individuals seeking the same things I am. There is a group of anything and everything, and it’s fun to get ideas, motivation, and advice from their members. Joining Facebook groups is a great way to get a lot of feedback and information on something from a whole bunch of people!
Connecting With Webinars and Workshops
Without as many live events taking place these days, webinars and virtual workshops are quite popular. These events are a great way to get a message across or learn how to master a skill! You’re going to see me doing a whole lot of webinars and workshops soon. I’m so excited to share and connect with people through online events!
What I love most about webinars and virtual workshops is that you get to focus on one important topic for 15, 30, or 60 minutes. You can get some great advice and valuable information from someone who knows their stuff. Then, use those lessons to improve where you are in your life.
Going Live and Sharing Videos
Okay, guys, this one might not be a “favorite,” but it’s something I’m learning to enjoy doing. In the past, I found connecting online via video to be a pretty anxiety-producing situation. It’s partially because I want things to be perfect and look perfect. I’ve realized, though, that perfect isn’t real.
I’m challenging myself to focus on progress over perfection. I’m working on conquering that demon. And I won’t let it win! So, I show up on video, and I’m learning to get more comfortable with it. I can’t wait to share more with you on how you can conquer the things that hold you back, too.
Let’s Connect
Now that I’ve shared my favorite ways to connect with people online, I want to hear from you! How do you like to see and communicate with your friends, family, or colleagues? What’s your favorite platform to use, and why? What platforms intimidate you, or are you learning to get comfortable with? Let me know, and I’ll see you there!
Live your best life,
Michelle