On a cold dark December evening in 2021, I met my mom in a Park and Ride lot off a highway in Wisconsin to share some Christmas cheer. Bundled up in her heavy coat, hat, gloves, boots and COVID mask, she joined me in my car, where I was similarly outfitted. My heart was heavy. I was sad, yet also happy we could be together. Our different approaches to the COVID pandemic along with our love and respect for one another had led us to this parking lot for our brief holiday get-together.
True to form, my mom was once again role modeling the importance of investing in personal connections, even when it's hard, awkward or unconventional. She would agree with organizational psychology expert Adam Grant that a person is better off spending their time building relationships than building their personal brand. She asked me about my dad who was dying. I told her his heart was failing. He had left the hospital and refused to go to a nursing home. He wanted to die in his home so he would not be alone like he had been in the hospital. She said she would pray for him and us - her and his five children. After the brief chat, she got out of my car and so did I. The sky was dark and sprinkled with stars. The bright headlights of the cars from the adjacent highway blinded our eyes as they whizzed by. As I wished her a Merry Christmas and gave her a hug, I saw my breath escape from my mask and dissipate into the cold air. Then she got back into her car and drove to her nearby home and I got back in my car, feeling more energized. I drove 100 miles plus to my home, to hug my family, swap clothes, turn around and head back to spend more time with my dying dad, bringing all the cheer I could muster. Leaders, During a crisis, find a way to make time to connect in-person with those affected, even if circumstances make it difficult or awkward or much less than ideal. Even if you are struggling with differences of opinion, don't let pride get in the way of your relationships. Your effort no matter how small or awkward can make a world of difference to your team members.
Key Points:
- Even amid hardship or crisis, small acts of connection — even brief, awkward, or unconventional ones — can deeply strengthen relationships and emotional support.
- Leaders who make time for personal connection in difficult times demonstrate care and build trust, helping teams stay resilient and united.