We are always in choice. Every day, in every interaction, we make choices—consciously or unconsciously—about how we show up, how we connect, and how we respond to the world around us.
I recall a coaching exercise that beautifully illustrated this truth. The class stood in two circles—an inner and an outer. Face to face with another person, we were given a simple yet profound choice: How would we greet one another? A handshake or a hug?
As the circle turned and each new person stood before me, I took a deep breath, looked them in the eye, and made my choice. Surprisingly, every time, I chose to hug. With each embrace, I felt a sense of warmth, connection, and affirmation.
There was only one instance where the other person extended a handshake instead. Though my choice was to hug, I gladly accepted their handshake with an open heart, knowing that love isn’t just one action—it’s an energy, an intention, a way of being.
This was a turning point for me because I am not a “huggy-huggie” type of person. That evening, I recall coming home and hugging each member of my family. There is a saying by Virginia Satir, a respected family therapist, "We need four hugs a day for survival. We need eight hugs a day for maintenance. We need twelve hugs a day for growth." That night, I realized how powerful a simple embrace could be—not just for others, but for myself.
On the brink of Valentine’s Day, I invite you to reflect: What are you choosing?
Love isn’t confined to romance; it is in our words, our actions, our willingness to be present. It can be expressed in kindness to a stranger, a moment of patience with a loved one, or even self-compassion in our inner dialogue.
Today, I invite you to choose love—in whatever form that may take. A smile, a word of encouragement, a moment of gratitude. However you choose to show up, let love be your guide.
💛 How will you choose love today? Share in the comments! #ChooseLove #ConsciousLiving #ValentinesChoice