When was your last meaningful conversation?

How often do you have a meaningful conversation?

Meaningful is defined as something that has a purpose or is worthwhile. Conversations that are meaningful help us build trust and feel connected to those around us. They make us feel heard and supported, they may teach us something new, may inspire us into action, and have been shown to increase the wellbeing of those engaging.

They require empathy, emotional intelligence, deep listening, and a genuine interest in the person/ people you’re speaking with. They push us to approach every conversation as though we’re looking to learn something.

As you got back to work this week, how many meaningful conversations did you have? If there weren’t as many as you’d like, try one of these questions in your next interaction:

- What projects are you currently working on?
- What’s a challenge you’re facing right now?
- What has been inspiring you recently… why?
- What skill are you looking to develop further this year?

In the workplace, these thoughtful conversations (whether a quick interaction or a longer discussion) build trust, elevate engagement and collaboration, and boost productivity by opening up communication pathways and building supportive environments.

How do you feel after having a meaningful conversation?