‘… We’re hard wired to connect with others, it’s what gives purpose and meaning to our lives… without it there is suffering.’

Brené Brown

The places we create help cause us to connect or disconnect from others.

Take this place.

Electronically gated and in the countryside means paying an impromptu visit is off-putting to all but the most determined.

Add to that it is a couple of miles from the nearest shop.

Noticing this is generally too far, psychologically, to want to walk for the loaf of bread or pint of milk we forgot - even hopping on a bike is a ride too far.

Living hereabouts without a car demands much more of people.

Mostly, the demands of day-to-day working are too great to voluntarily pile yet another on top. Getting to A or B from here means a car is almost essential.

Arriving or leaving home by car generates a wave, at best, to our coming and going near neighbour… assuming they’re in their car at the same time.

It strikes me this kind of place helps cause us to disconnect from others.

What do you notice about your place?

Does it connect or disconnect you?

If it’s a disconnector place to what extent are you suffering, consciously or unconsciously?

How might we change that?

Love to hear your thoughts.