6 TIPS TO STRENGTHEN CONNECTIONS

How many strong relationships exist in your life? Well, if you're like me you can at least put your parents and family, your partner, and a few friends on that list. Well, this year, Valentine's Day has me thinking about the importance of growing and strengthening connections with loved ones.

So, to honour this overrated holiday in a more meaningful way, I've partnered with Virgin Mobile's new home internet, and Steve, their very socially active (and date happy) home modem, to share 6 tips and tricks on how to strengthen connections with loved ones in your life.    

- ONE -

Make a short list of friends, loved ones, and family members that mean the most to you. Try to keep it between 5 and 10.  It's important to reflect on who actually means something to you - you know, those that would be there in a heart beat - because let's be honest, anyone can thumbs-up, double-tap, and like the 'you' that exists on social media.  

- TWO -

Commit to creating sincere connections when it comes to the people on your list. Try using the internet in other ways to think outside the social media box. For example, use your coveted wifi time to FaceTime these people once a week.  Or send them a personal email asking about only things you might know. Or better yet, just pick-up the phone and call them and ask them to get together.

- THREE -

Minimize distance. Some of the closest people in your life can be the furthest away, but that doesn’t mean you need to let the connection between you fizzle out. We live in a time when technology can bridge the gap when you can’t physically be together. Take Steve for example, he’s super reliable so you’ll never drop a FaceTime call. He also has super-fast download and upload speeds so you don’t have to worry about buffering when you and your long distance bestie want to stream your favourite series on your laptop together. 

- FOUR - 

Share what's actually going on in your life and be authentic.  We are all great at sharing the positives, the successes, and the best versions of ourselves on the internet. But when it comes to your besties and loved ones - just be you. That's right, being vulnerable and showing your true colours - even if blue - will strengthen any relationship! This is what makes us relatable and fosters a deeper connection with those we trust and value. 

- FIVE -

Create opportunities to be together. People joke all the time about 'Netflix and Chill' - but this doesn't have to be reserved for your potential hook-ups. Invite your friends over to binge watch a show, or educate your parents on the latest shows they're missing out on. So, spend time with those that mean the most to you. Eating delicious foods and create memories that will build-up and cement your relationship. 

- SIX -

Be consistent. We all have good intentions when it comes to resolutions and improving ourselves, but then soon after we hit the ground running we lose momentum and drop back to old habits. Make sure you are following-up by setting email or calendar reminders that trigger you to call and make plans. 

Let's make the most of Valentine's Day! Now put these tips and Steve, the happy home modem, to good use! He’s been busy connecting people in Ontario and Quebec to their friends and family. Check out Virgin Mobile’s campaign, chronicling his search for true love on their social channels.

Love Jake, <3 <3 <3