You know, “Connection is why we are here” is one of those simple lines that just hits different. It’s not just a nice sentiment; it’s the absolute bedrock of what makes us human and gives our lives meaning.
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Table of Contents
Meaning
At its core, this quote argues that our fundamental purpose isn’t about achievement or accumulation, but about the profound, vital need to belong to one another.
Explanation
Look, I’ve spent years looking at this through the lens of psychology and my own work, and here’s the thing. We often get it backwards. We chase success, thinking it will lead to connection. But Brown flips the script. She’s saying that connection is the prerequisite. It’s the fuel. It’s the “why” behind everything else we do. Without that sense of being seen, heard, and valued by others, all our other pursuits feel… hollow. It’s the difference between a life that’s just a series of events and a life that’s truly lived.
Quote Summary
Reading Level30
Aesthetic Score84
Origin & Factcheck
This powerful line comes straight from Brené Brown’s 2010 book, The Gifts of Imperfection. It’s a cornerstone of her research on vulnerability and wholehearted living, originating from her work in the United States. You won’t find it correctly attributed to anyone else.
Attribution Summary
Author Bio
Dr Brene Brown is the author of books such as Daring Greatly and The Power of Vulnerability. The TED talk and Netflix production based on her research reached out to millions of audience. She researches effects of courage and vulnerability in shaping people's work and relationships. She leads the Brené Brown Education and Research Group and provides evidence-based insights into practical tools to help people train themselves
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Where is this quotation located?
| Quotation | Connection is why we are here |
| Book Details | Publication Year/Date: 2010; ISBN/Unique Identifier: 9781592858491; Last edition. Number of pages. |
| Where is it? | Approximate page from 2010 Hazelden edition |
Context
In the book, she doesn’t just drop this bomb and move on. She lays the groundwork by talking about courage, compassion, and that big one: vulnerability. She frames connection as the natural outcome of having the guts to show up as your true, imperfect self. It’s the reward for the risk.
Usage Examples
So how do you actually use this? It’s a lens for decision-making.
- For a team leader feeling disconnected from their team: Instead of another team-building exercise focused on a task, you might say, “Let’s remember, connection is why we’re here. Let’s just share one non-work win from our week.” It shifts the focus from doing to being together.
- For a parent struggling with a teenager: It’s a mantra. Before reacting to the slammed door, you take a breath and remember the ultimate goal isn’t compliance in that moment, it’s preserving the long-term connection.
- For anyone feeling isolated: It’s a call to action. It’s the nudge to send that text, make that call, or join that group, re-framing it from a social chore to a core human need.
To whom it appeals?
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FAQ
Question: Does this mean we don’t need purpose or goals?
Answer: Not at all. It means our purpose and goals are infused with more meaning when they’re shared or contribute to our connections with others. A solo achievement is great, but an achievement celebrated with others? That’s what sticks with you.
Question: What if I’m an introvert? This sounds exhausting.
Answer: Great point. Connection isn’t about the quantity of social interactions. It’s about the quality. For an introvert, one or two deep, meaningful relationships can absolutely fulfill this need. It’s about the sense of belonging, not the number of people you small-talk with.
Question: How is this different from just being social?
Answer: You can be social without being connected. Think of a noisy party where you still feel alone. True connection requires a degree of vulnerability and authenticity that mere socialization often avoids. It’s the difference between a handshake and a hug.
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