The Endurance of Community
This week was full of meaningful moments that didn’t come from my usual routine, but they left a deep impact:
I spent time at the WorkHuman conference.
I watched my son graduate with his Associate’s degree in Automotive Technology.
I attended my uncle’s burial at Arlington National Cemetery.
What tied these three very different experiences together was the reminder that it’s not just the events themselves—but the people we experience them with—that matter most.
At the conference, they expected about 4,000 professionals to gather—people who pour their energy into improving the world of work. This natural community, anchored in a shared philosophy of keeping the human side front and center while navigating new technologies, reminded me how energizing it is to be with people who “get it.”
At the graduation, the sense of community was even more personal. Families, friends, teachers, and mentors gathered to celebrate a milestone. The speaker emphasized how teamwork and collaboration matter as students step into their next phase. These accomplishments didn’t happen in isolation. They were the product of support, encouragement, and belief.
And at Arlington, I had the privilege of witnessing a ceremony for my uncle, a Vietnam veteran. The community of military personnel who executed the service—19 people in total—operated with reverence, precision, and respect. That, combined with the presence of friends and family sharing stories and standing with one another, was a powerful reminder of community built on service and sacrifice.
We thrive when we’re in community with others. Even those of us who identify as introverted or more self-driven find meaning and comfort in being connected. We’re not meant to navigate our journey alone.
Our endurance as leaders—whether for ourselves, our families, or our teams—is strengthened by the people who walk alongside us. Those who show up in the tough moments, cheer in the wins, or simply listen when needed. As we design strategies to sustain our leadership, community must be a core pillar.
As you reflect on your own journey—personally and professionally—how intentionally are you building and leaning into your community?
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