Innovation will never replace conversation.

I was recently with a client of mine who has gone through a series of rough challenges: the loss of a loved one, business challenges, financial and other setbacks.

‘Things he never thought he would experience today and at this stage in his life.

We started talking about where he came from, where he is today, and where he wants to be in the future.

He was getting stuck on the last part – his legacy – as he was clouded by the here and now, limited by the feelings and emotions he was dealing with today.

As we spoke and as he began to let go of some of what had happened, I noticed an immediate sense of relief that someone was asking questions and leaning in on what was going on with him.

Look, we utilize so many tools that seemingly make life “simple” –  make life easier.

Go to a shop…. Nah, Amazon has it all and can do it.

Go out to dinner…. Nah, order in on DoorDash.

Head to the grocery store… Nah, Instacart it is.

All of these are opportunities to engage with people or even to run into someone you haven’t seen for a while. But we choose the “simple” way and miss out on engagement.

There is no replacement for personal, one-on-one time engaging with people.

Innovation allows for so much. But what really allows for is the ability to use the saved time for the things we need in life.

As I finished my time with my client and friend, we agreed to meet again in 90 days. We talked about what he would do going forward and put the past behind him.

We can only do what we can do. Focus on the now. Visualize who you are. See that vision through.

Always remember to connect, and if someone needs an ear, be that too.

-J.D.