Having close connections with another human being are some of the seminal moments in our lives. They shape us in ways that are difficult to describe. It doesn’t matter whether it’s your parents, lover, friends, or co-worker, our ability to experience personal intimacy is nourishment for our soul. I have known a few people who embrace it, and many more who run from it. Others think they experience it on Sunday mornings with other worshipers reading words off a page, but don’t.
Practically speaking we want safety before we express intimacy in our conversations, but it is more about our perspective. I learned the most about this when I came out. Now I make the choice of with whom and when I discuss my life and it mostly is my choice to be vulnerable and open about myself. It’s almost always a risk of sorts, and I do factor in to whom it is I am talking and the words they use and vibe I get, but always, it’s my choice. How often do you experience intimacy? What holds you back? What would change if you chose intimacy more often?
Not all people are comfortable in close quarters, but how do you feel about this and how has it affected your career and personal life? If you desire to change it, what are you doing to make this happen?
I don’t think I could say what a healthy level of intimacy is for you. Each person is different and your background has given you a certain comfort level. I am confident in saying that the more comfortable you are sharing close intimate relationships in your personal and professional life, the happier you will be. So many parts of our lives are experienced with other people. Coworkers, family, friends, and significant others, and even casual acquaintances can add purpose and meaning to life’s rhythm. My encouragement on this topic is to simply to stretch yourself. Ask yourself to try something new. Make a new friend or deepen an existing relationship in a way that adds new joy and purpose to your life. Start this today.
This blog is part of a series from the book Discover Your Best Life by Mike Hintz. His personal, professional, and spiritual growth tools are also featured in Northlink Retreats. If this topic resonates with you consider reading the book or attending one of the upcoming retreats.