Is it just me, or does February sometimes feel like the longest despite being the shortest month?

It’s that in-between stretch, caught between winter’s chill and the promise of spring. I often daydream about what’s ahead, and staying grounded in the present takes conscious effort.

But there’s plenty to focus on (and do) right now.

As the days slowly get a little longer, it may not be planting season yet, but it’s the perfect opportunity to refresh your garden (and houseplants). A little pruning, better airflow, and fresh nutrients help create the conditions for growth when the time comes.

And isn’t that true for our relationships, too?

Left untended, our relationships (and our garden) may sprout a few things occasionally. But genuine flourishing takes intention and care.

That’s why whenever I’m asked for the best recommendations for job seekers, my answer is always the same: Focus on relationships.

And what better time to do that than February—the month dedicated to love?

Make building and nurturing your community a top priority this month.

What does prioritizing relationships look like in action? It’s surprisingly simple:

+ Be kind.
+ Show up.

Okay, that can seem like such a simple suggestion, but these two actions together are a HUGE factor in career success. Many underestimate the value of a kind word or showing genuine support in fostering collaboration and building authentic professional relationships. 

“But if it’s so simple, Jenn, why doesn’t everyone do it!?”

Well, the likely culprits are the usual weeds in our garden:

+ The distractions of life
+ The pressures of a busy schedule
+ The habit of overthinking things

Remember: Acts of kindness and support don’t have to be grand gestures! Even the tiniest things—saying thank you, celebrating others’ success, or simply listening—can brighten someone’s day, create a ripple effect, and open doors to new opportunities. 

Try it and see. 

“Kindness is the golden chain by which society is bound together.” -Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

Rooted in Love: Show Your Appreciation

Your network is more than a resource—it’s the foundation of a fulfilling and resilient career. Send love notes to let people know you appreciate them! 

Want to send beautiful, impressive cards with your messages of appreciation or cards with a personal touch—but without expending a lot of time and effort? 

We found these websites to help you out!

Paperless Post (for sending via email or text)

Handwrytten (paper cards written and mailed for you)

Cultivation Guide: Build More Connections

Kindness and authenticity are essential in professional networking. True networking isn’t just exchanging business cards or LinkedIn requests—it’s building trust and rapport. People are more likely to remember and want to work with those who make them feel valued and respected. 

Continue reading this blog post, to learn how to become that person.

How To Cultivate Connections And Community For Career Success (Even If You’re An Introvert!)

Branch Out: Embrace New Endeavours

Community-building is often a pleasant surprise and a natural by-product of new endeavours.

Hosting The Flourish Careers podcast is one of the most unexpected ways I’ve built community and made friends. 

In the spirit of the season, we’re dedicating the entire month of February to these relationships. 

This week’s episode, “Secrets from a Former Corporate Recruiter,” allowed me to talk with Yolanda Owens, author of How to Score a Date with Your Potential Employer. With 20+ years as a corporate recruiter, Yolanda shares insider secrets to help you find your perfect career match.

This episode is packed with actionable advice, heartfelt stories, and a healthy dose of fun!

Plant Your Future: Fried to Flourishing

A flourishing garden results from interconnected relationships—and a flourishing career is no different. Combining the self-paced Fried To Flourishing course with the unmatched power of community, we’ve developed the nutrients needed for the career change you’ve wanted to make. 

Fried to Flourishing Course

A comprehensive experience in making meaningful career change

SIGN UP HERE

Want more career wisdom? Check out these podcast episodes/blog posts!
+ Letting Go of People-Pleasing
+ Letting Go of Perfectionism
+ Elevate Your Career: Strategies for Attending In-Person Events

For more insider stories, quick tips, and #CareerTalk, I invite you to connect with me on Instagram @flourish.careers.