|  Blog Post   |  when we connect first, courage can follow
intentional connection = you matter @justinefroelker

when we connect first, courage can follow

“People are actually doing this?” I was asked.

Yes. Absolutely. Especially the leaders who are committed to creating a culture where people know they matter.

Because when people know they matter at work, they stay.
They do better work.
And you actually enjoy leading them because you’re doing it in connection.

Intentional, courageous connection doesn’t have to take a ton of time.
It does require intention.
And it must become a daily practice, yes, even in every meeting.

Sometimes it’s as simple as opening with two quick questions:
– What are you excited about?
– What are you worried about?

Or a simple two-word check-in.

Because when we connect first, courage can follow.

And that’s the kind of culture worth building.

Author:

A Licensed Professional Counselor, Justine Froelker has over 25 years of experience in mental health, personal growth, and professional development. For eleven years, she was certified in Dr. Brené Brown’s work on vulnerability, courage, and empathy. Justine now shares her own curriculum, Courage is Built Here™. This transformative program empowers individuals to live and lead with self-awareness, authenticity, and resilience, building a foundation for courage-centered leadership. In addition to writing her blog since 2013, Justine is an accomplished author of twelve books—including five Amazon bestsellers—Justine has written across genres, from children’s books to in-depth explorations of infertility, faith, grief, and leadership. She has delivered two TEDx Talks, The Permission of the And and The Donut Effect, which highlight her unique perspective on navigating life’s complexities with grace. Justine is a sought-after speaker who travels nationally and presents virtually to global audiences, delivering keynotes, workshops, retreats, and trainings on topics such as leadership, resilience, mental health, coping with burnout, courageous and curious conversations, and fostering cultures of inclusion and belonging. Justine lives in St. Louis with her husband Chad and their two dogs, Gertie and Winston. You’ll often find her volunteering at Wild Bird Rehabilitation—supporting the medical team and feeding hundreds of tiny, hungry babies during baby bird season. And during butterfly season, her home comes alive with the flutter of wings as she raises hundreds of monarch and swallowtail butterflies.

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