"In general, people who have more optimistic expectations about the possibility of forming a connection are more likely to overlook superficial differences, and wait to see if they feel the spark of connection. They tend to have more diverse relationships, while those with fixed assumptions tend to have more limited social circles. Our beliefs about social connection can become self-fulfilling prophecies." —David Robson, author of The Laws of Connection: The Scientific Secrets of Building a Strong Social Network

The quality of our social connections determines not only our enjoyment of our everydays, whether we are at work or in our personal lives, it also affects our health and wellbeing. While this news will likely shock nobody, what might shock us are the ways we unconsciously or unknowingly partake in habits that obstruct the opportunity for healthier, and thus more enjoyable connections with others, of all stripes.

Based on cultural conditioning or insecurity within ourselves or what was modeled to us while growing up, we may have assumed there were certain ways to not only engage with the world, but what we should share and how much of our true feelings we should express about any given event in our lives. And so upon reading science writer David Robson's latest book, and discovering various research that dispelled previously held approaches as being helpful as well examples of how and why certain approaches were helpful or unhelpful, I took note not only while acknowledging where I could grow and learn, but wanting to share with TSLL community. Why? While Robson shares 13 laws of connection, each are multi-faceted, so based on what is working well for us now or conversely what we are struggling with when it comes to connection, we need worry less on knowing what the 'laws' are and more about ourselves and where we would benefit from applying new knowledge and thus learning new skills in how to connect sincerely, well and consistently with others to build a social network that elevates not only our lives but those who are a part of our social network. A two way street, as they say, and sometimes we just didn't yet know how to do that - to connect well, and that is where this book comes to provide the insights we can learn.

In today's post I have pulled ten specific approaches and skills that caught my attention for cultivating and maintaining a wide breadth of relationships in our lives. Whether it is your colleagues, or romantic partner, child or parent, neighbor or friend, all of the skills below will enhance those relationships.

Visit the detailed Show Notes on The Simply Luxurious Life blog - https://thesimplyluxuriouslife.com/podcast392 

In many arenas of life we witness what appears to be an immediate change, but upon looking at the road that prompted the change, the steps were gradual, intentional and focused. Over time, repetition and application, the skills coalesced, and much like finishing a house that has been built from the foundation up, it is complete. But it takes time, knowledge and consistent effort to experience the benefits of that warm house to live everyday life away from the elements.

The same thing happens when we choose to understand what true contentment is, and then start learning the skills, applying them. Gradually, ever so slowly we are building up our ability to experience the amazing life benefits that will deepen the quality of our days and lead us to feeling deeply at peace and fulfilled each day. Not because everything is always going to go our way or be full of endless happy moments, but because we are grounded and knowledge of the skills that ensure we navigate well through whatever crosses our path that we have no control over and what we do have control over, we handle it with loving-kindness and integrity.

Which leads me to today's topic: The surprising, yet unquestionably helpful skills and abilities we gain when we are living a life of contentment.

Each of the abilities shared in today's episode stem from the skill of awareness. Awareness not only of ourselves, but awareness of our surroundings, so a practice in being mindful.

Explore the detailed show notes here on TSLL blog - https://thesimplyluxuriouslife.com/podcast391