Belonging is a big one. People might assume everyone belongs somewhere; part of a family, part of a sports team, part of a business or just part of a group of friends. The funny thing is, even if it looks like that on the outside, sometimes we don’t feel like we belong anywhere.

I remember taking graduate classes with my fellow principals. I got along with all of them, but when it was break time, they would take off to the college café without me. They would walk the halls and talk, and at one point look around to see where I was, and keep walking. They’d wait for each other, but not for me. They had no idea how that made me feel…alone. They assumed that I could take care of myself; “Michelle is a strong woman, she doesn’t need anyone”. The truth was though, that it made me sad.

One time, I decided to catch up and I said: “Thanks for waiting for me guys, you always leave without me!” I said it with a smile trying to sound light. They just laughed. I continued: “I’m not joking, you wait for each other and not for me. I’m part of this group too!” They stopped and looked at me, I had taken them off guard. It felt good to say it out loud, and I think they got it.

It’s so easy to assume things about people. Look around you, maybe you can make a difference for someone. If it’s you, how about saying it out loud? Yep, you’ll feel vulnerable, probably uncomfortable, but people can’t read your mind. If they appreciate you, they’ll be happy you let them know how you feel!

Breathe, and go for it!