Hey Lykkers! Ever notice how we're more "connected" than ever, yet sometimes feel genuinely disconnected? We have a dozen group chats, our inboxes are always buzzing, and we can video call anyone on the planet in seconds.

But when was the last time a conversation left you feeling truly heard and energized?

If that hits home, you're not alone. In our digital-first world, we've mastered connectivity—the technical ability to link up. But we're often starving for real connection—the human bond that builds trust and inspires action. Today, let's talk about why the best leaders focus on bridging that very gap.

Think about your smartphone for a second. It's a miracle of connectivity. But it doesn't care about you. It can't sense your frustration, share your joy, or offer a word of encouragement. This is the fundamental difference between a network and a community.

In leadership, the same principle applies. You can have all the right tools: the slick project management software, the instant messaging apps, the weekly video check-ins. This is your infrastructure. It's essential, but it's inert. As leadership expert Simon Sinek powerfully states, "Leadership is not about being in charge. It is about taking care of those in your charge" (Sinek, S., Leaders Eat Last, 2014).

You can't take care of a blinking cursor on a screen; you take care of people. And people thrive on genuine human connection.

So, what does this "connection" look like in action? It's the difference between sending a "Good job" emoji in a Slack channel and walking over to someone's desk (or hopping on a quick, camera-on call) and saying, "I saw how you handled that client issue. Your patience and creativity were incredible. Thank you."

The first is efficient. The second is effective. The second version acknowledges effort, reinforces values, and makes a person feel seen as a human being, not just a productivity unit. This builds a currency far more valuable than data: trust.

Becoming a leader who prioritizes connection isn't complicated, but it does require being intentional. It's about using your tools to facilitate humanity, not replace it.

1. Be Purposefully Present: In your next one-on-one, close the laptop lid and put your phone away. Give the person your full attention for just 15 minutes. The simple act of undivided focus signals that they are your priority.

2. Listen to Understand, Not to Reply: We often listen with half an ear while formulating our response. Try to listen with the goal of truly grasping the other person's perspective, their unspoken concerns, and their underlying ideas.

3. Share to Relate: Vulnerability is a strength, not a weakness. Sharing your own appropriate challenges and what you learned from a failure doesn't make you look incompetent; it makes you relatable and approachable. As Brené Brown, a research professor known for her work on vulnerability, has found, "Vulnerability is the birthplace of innovation, creativity and change." It gives others permission to be human, too.

Lykkers, your tablet and smartphone are incredible tools. Use them to manage workflows and share data. But never forget that the most powerful leadership tool you have is your own humanity. Use it to build bridges, not just networks.

Now, go have a real conversation. You've got this.