Creating Connection During the Holidays

JAIME MESSINA
Dec 11, 2024By JAIME MESSINA
Emerald Lake with wooden cottage and snowman in falling snow at Yoho national park, Canada

Ideas for Reaching Out and Making New Connections
The holiday season can be a beautiful time of celebration and warmth, but for many of us in Club LILLES, it can also bring feelings of loneliness or isolation. Whether you’re navigating this season newly out, redefining traditions, or simply seeking deeper connections, you are not alone.

Let’s explore some ways to foster connection this holiday season — with others, within our community, and most importantly, with ourselves.

Host a Holiday Meetup or Virtual Chat
If there’s no event on the calendar, create one! Invite Club LILLES members for a low-pressure coffee date, a casual potluck, or even a virtual chat. Sometimes, others are feeling the same way but are waiting for someone to take the first step.

Idea: A “Holiday Stories Night” where everyone shares a favorite memory or tradition can foster connection and laughter.

Reach Out to Someone New
Take a moment to message someone in the group you haven’t connected with before. A simple, “Hey, I loved your post about [topic],” or “I’ve seen your name pop up — how are you doing this season?” can be the start of a meaningful conversation.

You’d be surprised how many people are craving connection and just need that gentle invitation.

Volunteer or Support a Cause Together
The holidays are a wonderful time to give back, and volunteering is a fantastic way to meet people while making a difference. Partner with a Club LILLES member to support a cause close to your heart — like a local animal rescue, food bank, or community shelter.

Shout-out: If you love animals, consider supporting Heidi’s Legacy Dog Rescue of Tampa — a cause that’s close to many of our hearts.

Redefine Traditions and Make New Ones
Sometimes old traditions no longer fit who we are or where we are in life. That’s okay. Give yourself permission to create new traditions that bring you joy. Invite a few friends from Club LILLES for a “Chosen Family” holiday dinner, a movie marathon, or a nature walk.

Remember: Traditions are about meaning, not perfection. Whatever fills your heart is valid.

Join the Conversation in Our Online Space
Our online Club LILLES group is always open. Share a holiday wish, ask for support, or post something that makes you smile. Your voice matters, and you never know who might need to hear what you have to say.

Try This: Post a “Holiday Connection Challenge” — invite members to comment with one thing they’re grateful for this season.

Be Kind to Yourself
Lastly, connection starts within. If the holidays feel overwhelming, take moments for self-care. Reflect, rest, and remind yourself that you are worthy of love and community.

Know that in Club LILLES, you are seen, valued, and celebrated — just as you are.

You Are Never Alone in Club LILLES
This holiday season, let’s lean into the connections we have and open our hearts to new ones. We’re in this together, raising the standards for what it means to belong to a safe and thriving community.

Wishing you connection, comfort, and joy — however you choose to celebrate.

❤️ Your Club LILLES Community