Let’s Talk

Since February is usually the coldest month of the year, it's nice that it brings us Valentine's Day on the 14th, which gives us an additional excuse to snuggle up and stay warm with a special someone. And if you're discussing romantic plans to celebrate the day with your significant other, hopefully you're choosing to patronize Woodstock's wonderful restaurants, retail establishments, and entertainment options to support local business owners and benefit our community.

Currently single? Or maybe Valentine's Day just isn't your thing? There's no rule that this holiday can't be about strengthening our relationships with our friends (hello, Galentine's Day!), family, colleagues, or ourselves. So, feel free to make this day about self-care or nurturing your other connections.

If you're looking for a tool to strengthen your relationships, check out this month's feature about the Enneagram System on pages 20-21. It can give insight into people's personalities, which can help us be better communicators — especially when it comes to having hard conversations.

Many of us avoid or put off having those hard conversations, but if we change our perspective and focus on what can happen on the other side of those necessary exchanges, it is a little easier to begin those talks — because not having important discussions can be detrimental.

"Relationships stagnate in silence. Candor opens the door to growth." -Adam Grant

So regardless of how or even if you celebrate Valentine's Day this month, we can all focus on being better communicators. The only way forward is through. There's no getting around that.

Have a fabulous February!