Independence might be part of your identity. It might even be how you’ve coped or earned respect. But that doesn’t mean connection is weakness. It’s human. And it helps things run better.
Most people aren’t short on ideas. They’re short on people who challenge them, support them, or just sit with them in the mess. But those relationships don’t happen by accident. They grow when you make room.
So speak up when something’s hard. Reach out even if nothing is urgent. Reply with more than “Thanks!” Take up space in conversations. Not to draw attention, but to let people know: I’m here. I care. I want to be part of this too.