Relationships are built daily: Here’s proof
I have to share this with you, because the story still makes me smile (and, honestly, laugh out loud).
📸 This photo was snapped right after I told an audience about how Tara Renze and I became friends, and yes, the moment I said I basically licked her like a puppy dog in the DMs, her face was priceless. 😂🐶
Let me rewind. ⏪
When I first joined ImpactEleven, one of the bureau agents who read my speaker evaluation told me something I’ll never forget. They asked, “What speakers are you most like?” and then answered their own question:
"You remind me of a speaker named Tara Renze."
I had never met Tara. I didn’t even know who she was.
So, naturally, I looked her up. And instantly thought, “Yep, I see it. She’s amazing.”
I followed her.
I engaged.
I commented.
She responded... eventually. 😉
And I put my relationship-building skills to work, not by chance, but with intention. Because that’s how real relationships grow.
I even tried to meet her in Kansas City once… and let’s just say, the vibe was less “OMG besties” and more “Who is this overly friendly stranger?” 😂
But I kept showing up. The conversations turned real, and intentional.
Then December rolled around. We were both speaking at an event in Nashville. I let her know I’d be there, and she replied, “I’m excited to finally meet you!”
When I arrived and found my table... guess whose name was assigned to it, too? Tara’s.
And yes, I may or may not have moved her name tag right next to mine. 🙃
That day, we finally met in person, and it felt so easy. Familiar. Like a relationship that had been quietly building for a while.
Now? She’s one of my closest friends.
We talk daily.
We cheer each other on.
We show up for each other... in work and in life.
And it all started with a simple, intentional hello.
Here’s what I know for sure:
👉 Relationships don’t grow without intention.
👉 Relationships aren’t built in a day. They are built daily.
👉 And sometimes, the best ones begin with a little boldness and a lot of heart.
So if there’s someone you admire, respect, or just feel drawn to: SHOW UP. Be kind. Be real. Be consistent.
You never know what that one DM could turn into. 💛
P.S. That photo? It’s Tara, standing at the back of the room while I shared our story, at an event where we were BOTH speaking. If that’s not a full-circle moment, I don’t know what is.
