I recently spent a few days in San Diego for the YPO Spouse/Partner Summit. I have little doubt the event was planned for May because it is Mental Health Awareness Month as it was a wonderful kick off to focusing on our mental health and wellness.
I must admit, I was a little nervous as the event drew nearer. It had been some time since I attended a retreat with women I didn’t know, and I found the 13-year-old in me taking over my brain, anxiously wondering: Will they like me? What should I wear? What will I talk about? What if no one sits with me? Blah blah blah…
But as I started to meet and connect with fellow attendees, the insecurities and fears began to melt away. I increasingly remembered how much I love being in spaces like that—spaces created by and for women, with intention, care, and curiosity. It was amazing and led to so many powerful takeaways from the summit. The consistent theme that stood out to me the most was connection—and how vital human connection is to our mental health.
Whether it was through shared stories on our bus rides, bonding during a kick-ass workout with Navy SEALs, or deep conversations during breakout sessions, I was constantly reminded that we are simply not meant to do life alone. This has always been a tough concept for me. I’ve proudly worn the crown of “I’ll do it myself” all my life—a mindset that’s only been reinforced by an age and lifestyle where busyness is worn like a badge of honor. That’s why it was so refreshing—and healing—to be in a space where vulnerability was welcomed and community was prioritized.
This summit reminded me that connection doesn’t have to be big, dramatic, or life changing. Sometimes it’s as simple as making eye contact, accepting a genuine compliment, or giving someone the space to speak their truth. How often do we move through our days without truly being present enough—with ourselves or with others—to freely make meaningful connections?
What I’m Taking With Me
Here are a few practices and reminders I’m bringing back from San Diego and inserting in my daily life:
Reach out first. Don’t wait for the perfect moment to connect with a friend, family member, or colleague. A quick voice note, text, or even an emoji can open the door.
Create space to be still. Some of the most profound connections I made happened in the quiet moments—without force, an agenda, or structure.
Let go of perfection. Connection thrives in imperfection. It’s okay to show up messy, uncertain, or emotional. Vulnerability is where real conversations begin.
Say yes to gathering. Whether it’s a formal retreat or a spontaneous coffee date, being in the room with others matters more than we think.
An Invitation to You
If you’re feeling a little disconnected, burned out, or just tired of the surface-level scroll, I invite you to reconnect—with yourself and with others. It doesn’t need to be a big event. Maybe it’s a walk with a friend, a phone call with someone you’ve been missing, or simply unplugging for an afternoon to check in with yourself. Consider it a soul massage and as such, a step in the right direction toward improved mental health and overall well-being.
In honor of Mental Health Awareness Month, I’m committing to making more intentional connections this month. If you want to join me, I’d love to hear from you. What helps you feel grounded and connected? What practices do you return to when life feels overwhelming? Let’s keep the conversation going—because connection really is the cure.
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