Vacation Vlog // Reflecting on the Importance of Deepening our Connections with Others

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Hi Friends!

I am sad to report that this is my FINAL vacation vlog! I am here in Palm Springs with two of the people that I love most in the entire world - my boyfriend @raised2b and our good friend Teresa. (Our friend Sandy was here for a couple days too) It has felt so amazing to spend a few days doing nothing but having fun and connecting deeply with some of my favorite people.

My soul feels full of joy and love and it has made me realize how often times relationships and friendships can take a backseat when we are in the midst of running around and living our daily lives.

Why is this?

Work is Deadline Focused... Relationships are Not

One of the things that I have found to be true... is that if I am swamped with work or getting a project done - I usually don't stop to think about sending a quick text to a family member, or getting together with a friend. Most work or business or projects tend to have deadlines associated with them... where friendships don't. This means that it's easy to get swept up in work and make less time for connection.

The 75 Harvard Study on Happiness

Some of you have probably heard of this study - in fact @happymoneyman talked all about it in his talk at the Steem Creators Conference! (He's amazing by the way... I would highly recommend checking out his page). Basically, the researchers spent 75 years interviewing people on their death bed asking them what they regret most in life.

No surprise here...but no one said they wished they had worked more. In fact, a resounding finding from the research was that people wish they had spent more time with those they loved. The ultimate findings from this study showed that the number one way to increase happiness in your life - is to deepen the quality of your connections.

The Difference with Activity Friends

One area that I think I do really well at staying connected, is with friends that I have certain common activities with. For example, maybe we dance together, or love getting together to watch Seahawks games. Whatever the activity may be - there is a cause and a reason to get together, and so we are better at spending time together on a regular basis.

What I struggle with are friends and family members that I don't see as often. Out of side out of mind, I guess. This is where I personally want to improve coming out of this vacation.

Who Could You Reach out to Today?

Here's a quick challenge. Think of someone that you love, that really means a lot to you - but you have'nt reached out to in a long time. Send them a quick text or email saying that you are thinking of them. It could make their entire day and takes you about 30 seconds.

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Thanks so much for watching/reading! I'm sad to be heading back to rainy Washington tomorrow, but I have really enjoyed reflecting on the great times I've had this vacation. I think i'm going to go hit the pool now and soak in the last few rays of sunshine!

Love you guys. <3

xo, Lea

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Gear That I Used in this Vlog

To add an extra layer of value and transparancy to my vlog's - I have started listing the gear I use at the bottom. Today’s setup was a little more minimal because it was filmed while traveling. If you ever have questions about the gear I use or how I use it – please don’t hesitate to ask!

• Microphone – Apogee Professional Microphone for Iphone/Ipad/Mac

• Camera – Iphone X

• Tripod – Joby Gorrillapod for SmartPhones

• Lighting – Qiaya Selfie Ring Light

• Video Editor – Imovie

• Thumbnail Photo Editor – Snapseed

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