CAPTURING CONNECTION: Finding Your People

As we step into a new year and head back to school from winter break, it’s the perfect time to reset—not just our goals but our mindset. Starting fresh means reflecting on what matters most: the people we surround ourselves with and the energy we bring into the world.

This year let’s focus on finding our people—the ones who make us laugh until we cry, who stand by us on the tough days, and who remind us that it’s okay to be exactly who we are.

Finding Your People

We live in a world where it’s easy to feel pressure to fit in, to be liked by everyone, and to make every circle “your circle.” But here’s the truth: You don’t need to be everyone’s person. And not everyone needs to be yours.

The people who matter are the ones who truly see you. They’re the friends who cheer for your wins, wipe your tears when things get hard, and love you unconditionally—messy bun, bad days, and all. That’s the beauty of finding your people: they’re your safe space in a noisy world.

It’s Okay to Be Different

Let’s face it—none of us are the same. Some of us are loud and adventurous; others are quiet and introspective. And guess what? That’s what makes life beautiful.

Not everyone will like you. You won’t like everyone. And that’s okay. The key isn’t to change yourself to fit in; it’s to embrace who you are while respecting others for who they are. Being different doesn’t mean we can’t be kind. Choosing kindness means understanding that we can coexist with others who may not be part of our circle.

The Power of Kindness

In a world full of noise, kindness stands out. It’s in the words we speak, the comments we leave, (yes, I’m referring to social media) and the way we treat people—even those who aren’t part of our inner circle. Choosing our words wisely (or our emojis) means we think before we speak, remembering that words have the power to hurt or heal.

Let this year be the one where we use our voices to uplift, not tear down. Let’s be the reason someone smiles instead of the reason someone doubts themselves.

Your People, Your Safe Space

Celebrate finding your people and feeling at home with them. Your people don’t need to be perfect. They just need to be the ones who make you feel safe, valued, and loved.

This year, focus on those friendships. Don’t waste your energy trying to make everyone like you. Instead, find the people who already do. Because at the end of the day, it’s not about how many people are in your life—it’s about having the right people there.

Don’t Forget to Include Yourself

As we focus on finding our people, let’s not forget the most important person in your circle—YOU. Before we can truly embrace the love and support of others, we need to first offer it to ourselves. Self-love isn’t selfish; it’s necessary. When you love and accept yourself—flaws and all—you set the standard for how others should treat you.

This year, start by making room for yourself in your own circle. Celebrate who you are, with all the things that make you unique, because you deserve that love and respect first. Once you do that, everything else falls into place. Your people will see you as you see yourself—and that’s the kind of energy that can change everything.

As you head into the new year, remember this: you are enough just as you are. The right people will see that and love you for it. And for everyone else? Choose your words carefully and move on with grace.