Be the Lighthouse: How to Build the Connections You Crave
I wanted to share an analogy inspired by a friend.
During a recent coffee meet-up over an iced matcha and an oat milk latte, we were talking about a common scenario in which people move to a new place; have a hard time finding their people/community/friends; and then ultimately move away.
We talked about the fact that it can be hard to find our people/community/friends in a new place —and how even if we aren't in a new place, it can sometimes feel hard to connect as adults.
As we talked about this, I commented that it seems like we often need to “create the thing we wish existed” —that if we aren't finding the type of community we desire, we might just have to create it.
“Exactly,” my friend said.
“We need to be the lighthouse.”
We can be the lighthouse for the type of thing we want to create, and for the type of thing we want to attract.
If we desire a different type of leadership or culture within our organization, we can be the lighthouse by modeling it.
If we wish we lived in a neighborhood where people got together for potlucks, we can be the lighthouse by hosting one.
And if we hold a vision of getting together with other people at a similar life stage or going through some sort of similar experience, we can be the lighthouse by hosting a gathering with a clear theme and invite list.
We can create the thing we wish existed.
We can be the lighthouse.
What do you think?
Are there any inspiring instances you've observed recently, of others being the lighthouse? Or perhaps where you've stepped into this way of being?
In leadership and in life, the connections we seek often start with the actions we take. True change begins when we lead by example and create what we wish to see in the world. Whether it’s fostering a sense of community, building a culture of collaboration, or inspiring others through thoughtful leadership, it starts with being the lighthouse. Let’s work together to help you shine brightly—cultivating the clarity, courage, and vision needed to attract and create the meaningful impact you desire. Together, we can light the way.
This post was originally shared via Friday Favorites —a free weekly curation of resources, reflections, and inquiries on leadership and life. Join us here, and join the weekly conversation, if you’d like.
Creating the Change you Seek: Just as a lighthouse guides ships to safety, we can illuminate the path for others by embodying the values, connections, and culture we wish to see. By stepping into this role, we inspire and attract the community and impact we desire.
