May 2, 2012

What Makes You Feel Included?

Photo Quipsnquills
I was chatting with some friends about what makes them feel included. We all love times when someone bring us alongside them, or pulls us into their circle. For some it was as simple as a step back allowing them access to a conversation. For others, a gentle nod to indicate someone wanted them to come along. It could also be someone saying your name or giving a tender hug when they see you (my favorite).

Being included is huge.

Our conversation got me wondering about what it should look like to include someone on a blog. I'd love to think that everyone who visits here feels as if they belong. So I thought about what makes me feel included as I browse through blogs and I realized it's often a connection with the person writing the blog. It could be through their words from the heart, photos about their life, things they're learning or comments they leave.

What makes you feel included in real life, or blog life (or both)?

12 comments :

  1. When I went to TLA the other week, a couple of authors I was walking around with actually waited for me to come out of the restroom. They could have just kept going, but they stuck around. I felt so accepted by them, I can't even tell you. haha.
    As far as blogging goes, I love it when I get response comments. Now, sometimes I just don't have the time to respond to people on my own blog, but when I can, I make the effort to, because I know what it's like to feel that connection from the other side. It's nice to be heard.
    Bigger picture for blogs, I think just opening up a post with a question at the end helps people feel included in the posts.

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    1. I KNOW, the smallest things are what say the most. You know I hadn't thought about how a question at the end helps you feel included, but I agree!

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  2. I am with Kristin, responses and comments warm my heart...they don't even have to agree with me...I love the flow of conversation and learning about one another and comments are a good way to do the. As I reveal myself in my writing I love seeing my readers reveal themselves through their comments.
    In the real world, I love to be asked to something...in my world my personality lends to being "the asker" alot of the time, so when someone asks me...wow what a treat and what a gift that is to me. : )
    also I appreciate genuine "happy to see you" looks in peoples faces, there is nothing better than that!
    good thoughts today Katherine
    love it!

    Love and Light

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    1. I wanted to chat more about comments; but decided to put it in a separate post. :) I love being asked things to. I think it's the sweetness that someone really wants to know you.

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  3. im digging the new blog design!
    feeling included: to let someone know, that you havent forgotten about them. a quick thoughtful hello. or someone saying : " i saw this the other day, and it reminded me of you!"
    -m

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    1. I agree. There's something about feeling remembered. I'm not always great about this, but I have sweet friends who are; who've called me in times of sickness just to check in.

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  4. A short and sweet post.

    I'm glad I'm here again. I often wonder too about blogging, about who I feel I connect with or who feels he or she connects with me.... I can connect with you again.

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    1. I'm glad you're here again, too! Thanks for connecting with me. :)

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  5. enjoyed this :)

    not many people read my blog but I continue to blog because I like writing and keeping it - maybe my kids will read it one day. One of the things I like about your blog is that you response to your readers :) Your inspired me to do that with mine :)

    In real life especially in social situations I feel included when someone comes alongside and talks to me. I find social situations hard. I was verbally bullied through most of my childhood and by the time I got to my teens I was a loner.

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    1. I'm glad. :) You know, I haven't always responded here on the blog but I'm trying to do that more. I like the conversation aspect and I'm glad you're doing that with yours.

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  6. Very thoughtful question and discoussion point. Kristin, I like your idea of asking a question at the end. An excellent way to include others to join the conversation.
    Saying this reminded me of you is also an excellent way to connect with others and let them know you include them in your life and thoughts. Thanks for your post Catherine :)

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    1. It's so true, questions are an easy way to get to know someone. It allows them to share their world and for us to engage in it.

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