Storytime…
In a session several years ago a client of mine was lamenting her disconnect from family and friends. She was struggling with a skin picking disorder at the time. Try as she might, family members just didn’t ‘get it’. Friends continued to say things that not only didn’t help, but made her feel worse. It was exhausting to repeatedly attempt explaining her experience with people close to her. Those conversations were awkward and tense at times. I put forward my best effort at the time to support her and help navigate these conversations.
An idea
These sessions sparked an idea. They highlighted a common struggle; how to share valuable information in an effective, meaningful, and low stress format. Get the important message received without the exhaustion and angst. This is how the Lo.Co. movement was born
In its first iteration they were referred to as ‘Now You Know’ cards. Self explanatory, the intention of ‘Now You Know’ cards was simple.
Step 1
Customize a ‘business’ card with essential information you want someone to know. It could be a personal struggle like social anxiety or a recent medical crisis. It could also be something positive like expecting a child. Provide a brief description.
Step 2
Educate the recipient. What would be helpful> More importantly, what would NOT be helpful?
Step 3
Repeat with all those who would benefit from ‘knowing’. This is not just for ourselves. It could be for your child’s bus driver or a friend’s neighbor.
In essence we are communicating ‘Now You Know what you need to know’ without saying it.
We certainly are big supporters of verbal dialog when possible. At the same time we appreciate the times when this tool comes in handy. The time just doesn’t feel right. You sort of know this person but aren’t that close to them. Sort of want them to know but sort of don’t want to make it awkward. You know what we mean.
Not only are these cards giving the essential about what’s going on, it also tells a person what is helpful response and what is NOT helpful. That is something I know many people wish more people were sensitive to. We have found that once the ice is broken via a written word it opens the door to a conversation. What more of us need to be having. Authentic conversation.
Evolution
Over time we received tremendous feedback from individuals. Almost everyone’s initial recitation was positive. Interestingly, so many people had new possible applications for these cards. They also provided constructive feedback on size, design, phrasing, etc. Despite our satisfaction with the OG card we took it all in and rebranded the movement + cards.
Fast Forward
We embraced taking on stigma. Taking the colloquial term ’LOCO’ and turning it on its head. For those unfamiliar, Dr. Abraham Maslow (back in the 40s) identified our fundamental needs for growth, motivation, and thriving in life. Love and belonging are one of the essential prerequisites for us humans to become our best selves. How nice would it be for LOCO to stand for ‘Love & Connection (LO.CO.)” in place of ‘crazy’? Amiright?!
Help end stigma
It’s difficult in recent times to find something we can all agree on. Tragically, most of us would acknowledge our desire for deeper, more authentic connection in our lives. An open, genuine dialog without polarization is harder to come by. You are already familiar with the far-reaching impact of loneliness and isolation. For some, particular topics carry with stigma and shame, creating a hurdle to sharing.
Lo.Co. cards are not cards. They are a movement. A movement to grease the wheels of connection. Of conversation. Of understanding. Wouldn’t that make the world a better place to live?
Join us!
Share your own story of connection. Creating a conversation. Sharing with others. Providing support for others. Use the hashtag #lo.co. Tag us @cbtbaltimore on all social media We might profile your story!
For more information about thai movement, how to get involved, collaborate, get your own cards email us [email protected].