Like many of you, I decided to see Avatar over the holidays. Not knowing what to expect, I was surprised by the beauty and wisdom embedded in the plot. I was particularly touched by the notions and visuals around the theme of connection - beautiful, really - and not what I expected from the sci-fi heavy previews.

My favorite line in the movie was taken from native folklore. "I see you" is the way some native tribesmen greet one another. During my tenure with LEADERSHIP I have come to understand the profound power of that statement. Most of us tend to feel invisible and often treat others that way. We forget to say hello as we walk past colleagues, or goodbye as we leave the house. When you take that extra moment to see someone - your colleague, or client, or child - both of you are energized. The person who sees learns something about the other. The person who is seen feels acknowledged and valued. This brief, encouraging exchange increases the likelihood that both people will take a moment going forward to see yet another person, who then receives the gift of being seen. And so on and so forth, and suddenly the community is more tightly connected.

So later today, or some time this week, remind yourself to pause, make eye contact, and practice the "I see you" leadership competency. It's another win/win strategy and a way to build community. Yet another way to Pay It Forward.