Connecting involves engaging with a scenius, which is composed of mentors and peers from a community of practice (my ideal mentors and peers). I need to invest time and energy to establish long-lasting relationships in real life or online.

There are two main goals when connecting:

1. To find conversation partners who would help me sharpen my understanding and practice.
2. To serve an audience who could also, eventually, support my work.

To connect effectively, I follow a strategy for connecting (see also slow connecting for introverts).

Here are the following sub-areas under this life area and their standards.

[C] - Lea

I am consistently showing up to improve Lea’s overall quality of life and our shared sense of fulfillment.

[C] - Friends

I have articulated clearly to myself what kind of people I want to surround myself with. I have people in my life who are both like-minded and like-hearted to me. I show up to these few friends in a regular basis.

[C] - Pets

I provide the best possible care I can gives to the little creatures in my life.

[C] - Family

I perform my responsibilities as a family member and nurture the ties I have with my family without compromising my boundaries.

[C] - Lea’s Family

I have made my bond with Lea’s siblings, mother, and other close family members stronger without compromising my boundaries.

[C] - Neighbors

I have maintained a peaceful, understanding, and loving relationship with my neighbors.

[C] - Kiitsu Kyōkai

I am an active and proactive member of the Kiitsu Kyōkai. I regularly volunteer to lead free conversations, prepare for meetings diligently, and participate actively. I also connect with other members outside our meetings.

[C] - Jōdo Shinshū

I am an active and proactive member of my Jōdo Shinshū family. I take time to study Jōdo Shinshū texts and attend all the monthly meetings religiously. I also support my fellow students and teacher outside of our meetings.

[C] - Seiza

I am a serious seiza practitioner. I regularly attend the English and Japanese seiza group sessions, ask questions during the time allotted for them, and support other practitioners outside our sessions.

[C] - Nilay

I am an active and proactive member of Nilay. I regularly show up during sessions, regularly volunteer to lead writing sessions, suggest ideas to further improve the group, and support individual members whenever they need help.