You, Me, We: Why We All Need a Friend at Work (and How to Show Up As One!)

We spend the majority of our waking day, our lives, at work - and we all want to feel like we are adding value, that our opinions matter, and that we belong.

But it doesn't always feel that way. We feel stuck on the never ending hamster wheel to success. We feel isolated, and the pandemic hasn't helped matters when the only time our boss or colleagues call us is to check in on what we're doing, not how we're doing. Disengagement and loneliness are increasing.

And, here's why: We've been looking at engagement from the wrong angle. In asking "Do I have a (best) friend at work?" we've disempowered ourselves, allowing us to point fingers and blame the culture, and others, for why we feel alone.

So, what does this mean?: The first step in creating ally relationships, in having a friend at work, is by being a friend at work. The question we should be asking ourselves is "Am I a (best) friend at work?"

Which is where You, Me, We comes in!
We need to look up and evaluate the health of our professional relationships; be intentional in how we show up within each relationships; and step up by developing and demonstrating the five practices of an Ally Mindset:

• Abundance and Generosity
• Connection and Compassion
• Courage and Vulnerability
• Candor and Debate
• Action and Accountability

It's not rocket science. It's common sense. We crave connection; it's built deep into our DNA. We're more often better together.

Relationships are made or broken one conversation at a time. Today you have the opportunity to reach out to someone who needs a human touch. And you can do that starting right now.

• Look up. What do you want others to feel in your presence? How do you feel in your own presence?
• Show up. Are you intentional about how you show up? Who do you need to connect with?
• Step up. There is no try, only do. Do your best.