Week 5: Reflect and Re-Engage
Pausing to reflect will give you the space to think back on all you’ve accomplished. Even if you were only able to complete a handful of tasks this past month, looking back on your progress may feed motivation to move forward and to continue saying hello to something — or someone — new.
Your voice matters.
You've spent the past few weeks connecting—now help us connect the dots. Your feedback helps us make The Ethel Connection Challenge even better—whether you couldn’t participate as much as you planned or completed every challenge! The survey button below will connect you to a third-party hosted website, where you can submit your feedback.
Activities for Oct. 26-31
Reflection is a powerful tool for growth. At the same time, use this final week to re-engage with those you’ve lost touch with — whether they live far away or just down the road. Take time to appreciate those who have helped you over the last 31 days.
Text someone you haven’t spoken to in 6+ months.
Most people we know would appreciate this simple gesture more than you’d expect.
Tip: Something as simple as, “I was just thinking of you. How have you been?” works wonders.
Tip: Something as simple as, “I was just thinking of you. How have you been?” works wonders.
Reflect with someone about how your friendship/relationship has evolved.
Reminiscing brings people closer and also makes reflection easier and more fun. Reach out to an old friend or even a family member, and talk about your friendship and its impact on your life..
Tip: Use old photos or memories of the two of you to spark conversation.
Tip: Use old photos or memories of the two of you to spark conversation.
Attend an event in your local area and stay for at least 30 minutes, such as a library event, farmers market, or art gallery opening.
If you feel out of touch with your community, take just 30 minutes to visit a locale you haven’t been to in a while — if ever.
Tip: Go with an open mind. Even if it’s not ‘your thing,’ you might discover something new or meet a new friend.
Tip: Go with an open mind. Even if it’s not ‘your thing,’ you might discover something new or meet a new friend.
Reach out to someone from your past with whom you’ve lost touch.
Reach out with a low-pressure message via text, email, or social media, acknowledge the time that’s passed, and offer a brief update on your life.
Tip: Acknowledge the gap without guilt. A simple, “It’s been too long! Here’s what I’ve been up to,” feels genuine and kind.
Tip: Acknowledge the gap without guilt. A simple, “It’s been too long! Here’s what I’ve been up to,” feels genuine and kind.
Reflect on the challenge.
How did it go? Which tasks were the hardest? Which challenges resulted in positive outcomes? Do you feel more socially connected than you did 31 days ago? Would you do a similar challenge again?
Tip: Share them in the chat and in our end-of-pilot survey. It will reinforce the growth you’ve made and help us improve future challenges at the same time.
Tip: Share them in the chat and in our end-of-pilot survey. It will reinforce the growth you’ve made and help us improve future challenges at the same time.
Bonus: Start a gratitude journal.
Tip: Jot down one thing you are grateful for each day. Even small moments count, and over time, gratitude can reshape your outlook.
Challenge Calendar
