By Negilla Cenac ​

"Connection is the energy that is created between people when they feel seen, heard, and valued." - Brene Brown

Imagine a world where connections form as easily as a swipe, but are discarded just as swiftly. In this digital age, where ghosting and moving on have become everyday norms, I invite you to journey with me towards an empowering alternative: a world where those who remain, express their emotions openly, and resolve conflicts become the architects of deeper relationships. Today, we delve into the profound significance of these qualities and their transformative potential in reshaping our approach to building connections and navigating an interconnected world.

Picture this scenario: the chime of a notification, a fleeting glance at a screen, and suddenly, an individual fades from our lives. This narrative, emblematic of our digital era, witnesses relationships flicker and fade like candles in a breeze. Yet, amid this sea of transient connections, certain individuals emerge as luminous beacons of authenticity and resilience.

The prevalence of such fleeting connections is underscored by studies revealing the speed at which people move on in our digital landscape. In a time where swipes dictate our interactions, the steadfastness of those who choose to remain becomes even more vital. These individuals anchor relationships like roots of an enduring tree, offering essential stability and sustenance. They understand that genuine connections demand patience, effort, and a tenacity capable of enduring life's tempests. Their presence serves as a testament that creating something meaningful requires a blend of time and heart.

Another vital facet deserving our focus is the art of emotional expression—an essential pillar of human connection. In a society that sometimes exalts emotional detachment, those who share their feelings openly become pioneers of authenticity. They remind us that vulnerability isn't a sign of frailty; it's a bridge connecting souls. By baring our emotions, we nurture empathy, deepen understanding, and forge bonds of profound intimacy. These genuine expressions become the fertile ground on which profound relationships truly flourish.

"Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up." - Ecclesiastes 4:9-10

Let's consider Mandy, a young woman who always kept her emotions guarded, fearing vulnerability might equate to weakness. In a transformative personal growth workshop, however, she found herself sharing a painful childhood experience. Tears streamed down her cheeks as she spoke, anticipating judgment. To her astonishment, the room filled with a palpable sense of empathy. In the days that followed, fellow participants approached her with their own stories, grateful for her courage. Unbeknownst to Mandy, her candidness forged bridges of connection. Her openness liberated her and inspired others to embrace vulnerability. Participants found solace in shared experiences, creating connections that transcended the surface, touching their hearts profoundly.

But let's not overlook the potency of conflict resolution. In a culture that encourages detachment, those who confront challenges head-on are champions of growth. Conflicts aren't barriers; they're stepping stones to personal evolution. These individuals engage in difficult conversations, practice active listening, and actively seek common ground. They illustrate how addressing issues can forge unbreakable bonds.

In truth, embracing conflicts often strengthens relationships.

Now, how can we embody commitment, emotional expression, and resolution in a world that seems to value convenience over depth?

Cultivate Active Presence: Engage fully in interactions. Cast aside distractions, listen genuinely, and create an atmosphere where authentic expression flourishes.

Normalize Vulnerability: Let go of reservations about sharing emotions. Vulnerability is the bridge to genuine connections. Your openness encourages others to follow suit.

Deliberate Presence: Immerse yourself fully in interactions. Set distractions aside and be present with others. This communicates commitment and respect effectively.

Embrace Vulnerability: Break free from emotional detachment's cycle. Share emotions genuinely, encouraging others to do the same. This lays the groundwork for empathy and understanding.

Quality Over Quantity: In a world of fleeting connections, prioritize relationship depth over quantity. Investing time and energy into meaningful connections yields immeasurable rewards.

Embrace Challenging Conversations: Rather than avoiding conflicts, view them as opportunities for growth. Approach these discussions with empathy, a desire to understand, and a commitment to solutions.

Let's celebrate those who choose to stay, express themselves openly, and confront challenges directly. Their commitment reminds us that relationships hold intrinsic value beyond disposability, like cherished treasures. By nurturing these qualities within ourselves, we unleash a ripple effect of meaningful connections that defy our era's disposable norms. Remember, embracing commitment, emotional expression, and resolution enriches our lives and those around us.

In an age where technology reshapes interactions, convenience is king, and disposability reigns. But within this trend, a distinct group stands as beacons of inspiration.

The Unyielding Strength of Commitment

Let's journey into the realm of commitment. In a world where relationships often seem ephemeral, those who choose to stay become steadfast anchors in tumultuous waters. They understand that meaningful connections require time, effort, and unwavering dedication. Whether in friendship, romance, or collaboration, commitment forms the bedrock of trust and intimacy. These individuals know that while novelty allures, the depth of established connections is irreplaceable.

The Courage of Emotional Expression

Now, let's explore the power of emotional expression. In a society that occasionally champions emotional detachment, those who openly share feelings become pioneers of authenticity. Vulnerability might be misconstrued as weakness, yet baring our emotions takes immense courage. By sharing our triumphs, fears, and vulnerabilities, we construct bridges that unite hearts. These connections surpass surface interactions, birthing profound bonds that transcend the superficiality of our digital age.

Navigating Challenges through Resolution

And what of conflicts? In an environment that suggests avoidance, those who confront challenges serve as catalysts for growth. Conflicts aren't roadblocks; they're crossroads to deeper understanding and connection. Those who commit to resolving issues show a readiness to listen, empathize, and find common ground. They transform adversity into opportunities for positive transformation, setting an example for us all.

Pause and reflect on those who choose to stay, express emotions sincerely, and tackle challenges directly. As we navigate a disposable era, let's remember that the power to reshape the narrative lies within us. By embodying commitment, emotional expression, and resolution, we can revolutionize relationships and reshape our world. Opting for depth over disposability, we inspire others to follow suit.

By Negilla Cenac 


Our world often celebrates selflessness and compassion, but moving from being a people pleaser to someone with strong boundaries is a significant and transformative journey. This path involves understanding how to balance considering others' feelings with respecting our own emotions. As we navigate this transformation, we discover the powerful realization that saying no without guilt is more than just a skill – it's a superpower that empowers us to lead authentic and satisfying lives.

The Challenge of Change: Shifting from people pleasing to setting firm boundaries is no simple task. It's hard to differentiate between asserting ourselves and being seen as harsh, especially when we've spent years prioritizing others' feelings. The fear of letting others down clouds our ability to prioritize our own well-being. Even saying no can trigger guilt and anxiety. This struggle highlights the inner conflict between external expectations and our internal needs. At the core of this journey lies the incredible strength to say no without feeling guilty. This ability signifies newfound self-awareness and self-worth. It's a declaration that our emotions and needs are just as important as others'.

Recognizing this strength lets us form healthier relationships and establish balanced emotional exchanges with those around us. Saying no becomes an act of self-care rather than selfishness. Compassionate individuals often bear heavy emotional burdens. Their selflessness leads them to give endlessly without expecting anything in return. However, this generosity can lead to being taken advantage of and mistreated. The transition from people pleasing to self-boundaries is a deep existential journey that highlights these contradictions. It requires reevaluating motivations and reshaping relationships.

Transitioning from people pleasing to self-boundaries is beyond just changing behavior. It's a voyage into the core of our existence. It involves shedding externally imposed identities and embarking on a journey of genuine self-discovery. This process reveals authenticity that was overshadowed by the need to please others. The journey offers an opportunity to realign with personal values and desires. Embracing self-boundaries isn't isolating; it's aligning with a universal truth. This truth states that inner wholeness must come before effectively serving the universe.

Prioritizing ourselves becomes a necessary step to making a meaningful impact on the world. Focusing on personal growth and well-being equips us to positively influence others. Contrary to common belief, setting boundaries doesn't create distance; it helps us get closer to our authentic selves. By defining our limits, we create pathways for healthier, more genuine connections. Boundaries become bridges that foster open communication and mutual respect. They establish an environment where both parties can thrive without compromising well-being.

The Journey of Transformation: Moving from a people pleaser to embracing self-boundaries is a profound exploration of self-worth, authenticity, and compassion. It's recognizing that saying no is empowering, not selfish. By understanding the strength in prioritizing our feelings and needs, we pave the way for a life filled with authenticity and fulfillment. As we navigate this profound shift, we align with the universal truth that true service to the universe begins with nurturing our universe within.