As we prepare to step into another new year, I find myself reflecting on the word that has defined my journey this year: Connection. Last year, my focus was on Collaboration, and while the two are closely linked, I’ve come to realize that connection is the foundation for almost everything meaningful in life and business. It’s the currency of relationships, growth, and opportunity.
This realization has guided me not just to participate in, but to create spaces for connection. While I’ve long been part of several local and online networking groups, this year I took a bold step and decided to start my own local networking group in Santa Fe, aptly named SF Hive. What began as a simple idea—a group of like-minded professionals meeting twice a month over lunch at different local restaurants—has blossomed into a thriving community that supports, shares, and uplifts one another.
Next week, we’ll celebrate one year since our very first gathering. It’s been an incredible journey to witness how connections forged within SF Hive have led to resources shared, business exchanged, and even lasting friendships. The cross-pollination with other Hive members has been nothing short of magical. It reminds me of something Steve Jobs said in his famous Stanford commencement speech: “You can’t connect the dots looking forward; you can only connect them looking backwards.”
Connection Is Currency
In today’s fast-paced world, where digital communication often overshadows face-to-face interactions, the value of genuine human connection cannot be overstated. Connection isn’t just about meeting people; it’s about creating relationships that hold meaning. It’s about showing up—not knowing exactly how a conversation or encounter will unfold—but trusting that every dot will eventually connect to shape the bigger picture.
For professionals, connection is currency. It’s the bridge between where you are now and where you want to be. Whether you’re an entrepreneur seeking clients, a creative looking for collaborators, or someone simply trying to expand your network, showing up and building connections is key.
Networking isn’t just about exchanging business cards or LinkedIn requests. It’s about forging relationships based on mutual trust, respect, and shared goals. This year alone, I’ve met people at SF Hive and other events who have become key collaborators, mentors, and friends. I’ve also seen how showing up for others—be it through a recommendation, an introduction, or simply listening—can create ripple effects far beyond what you’d imagine.
The Importance of Being in the Right Room
Starting SF Hive taught me that creating a space for connection often begins with taking a leap of faith. I didn’t have a grand plan for how it would unfold. I simply knew there was a need for a local community where we could connect over a meal, share resources, and support one another. What’s been most rewarding is seeing how members have stepped up to share their expertise, lend a hand, and celebrate each other’s successes.
This experience has reinforced a powerful lesson: the right room can change everything. Whether it’s a Hive gathering, a conference, or a dinner with friends, you never know who you might meet next. It could be a future client, a collaborator, or someone who inspires you to think differently about your work and your life.
For me, showing up is about more than just business growth. It’s about creating a life rich in connection and possibility. I often remind myself and others that the magic of connection lies in its unpredictability. You may walk into a room expecting one thing and walk out with something entirely different—often, something better than you could have planned.
Why You Should Show Up
As Steve Jobs so eloquently put it, the dots only make sense when you look back. That’s why it’s crucial to say yes to opportunities, even when they feel uncertain. Whether it’s a networking event, a casual coffee chat, or a group like SF Hive, showing up opens doors you didn’t even know existed.
In Santa Fe, we’re lucky to have a thriving community of professionals who value connection. And if you’re a local—or even just passing through—I encourage you to join us. You never know who you might meet, what insights you’ll gain, or what dots you’ll be able to connect in the years to come.
As we move forward, I’ll carry the lessons I’ve learned this year about the power of connection into the next. For me, it’s not just about growing a network but about building a community that makes us all stronger, wiser, and more connected.
So, as you reflect on your own goals for the coming year, I invite you to think about the role connection can play in your life. Where can you show up? Who can you meet? What doors might open if you simply said yes to the possibility of connection?
Because, as I’ve learned firsthand, connection is the currency that can transform not just your business, but your life.
To your success and abundance!
Tania
P.S. Speaking of connection, I recently met the fabulous Julie Valbuena, a women’s hormone expert, and I know we’ll be collaborating on future projects. Although we’re thousands of miles apart, we share Hispanic roots and the experience of navigating perimenopause. If you know any women in their late 30s, 40s, or 50s, please share this week’s podcast episode with them—it could be a game-changer. Just click here to listen.
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