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Estimated read time: 3 minutes

As we enter a new month, quarter, and for some, a new year, I'm reminded that what unites us is far stronger than what divides us—and it goes beyond excitement for watching Hocus Pocus (which I already did… in July).

October brings awareness to a range of causes—from mental health to breast cancer—and highlights how the world is just a lot right now. 

What’s the true power of awareness? It gives us the information to act. In short, now is the time to harness the power of movement—together.

We often separate physical activity from our social lives and career, but combining them can amplify the benefits of both. When stressed, busy, or afraid, we often isolate ourselves, fearing we'll burden others, feeling too vulnerable, or believing no one cares. However, the research shows that people care about you more than you think.

The message is simple this week: connect. A support system strengthens us all. Embrace the opportunity to build yours and be part of another’s. No one needs to move through this world alone (and we live longer when we don’t).

Now that you’re aware of what a little collective movement can do, I’ll make it easy for you to take action in the next section. Your body—and your social circle—will thank you.

One Simple Thing

Physical and social fitness go hand in hand. Here’s your mission, should you choose to accept it (and since you've read this far, do accept). Pick one of the following actions to undertake this month and get moving:

• Walk or Run for Awareness: Most of us know or love someone affected by breast cancer. Grab a friend, do a walk, or run in your area for a cure here.

• Catch Up: Take a friend, colleague, mentor, or mentee for coffee. (Tip: schedule it for Global Mental Health Day on 10/10). 

• Bond on the Go: Do a walking catchup, call, or fitness class with a friend who knows you well. Also, stay tuned for Dilagence content that you can use to get moving together. 

• Missed Connection: On your next walk, do action item 3 or 4 from this list. 

Pro Tip: 30 seconds to go. Walk around, do 5 squats, or plank—and read the rest. 

Dilagence on the Move 

• Check out my piece in Harvard’s Leadership & Happiness Laboratory about the power of childhood lessons for leadership. At a minimum, it’ll inspire you to rewatch Big. 

• Loved chatting with Kahilla about peak performance and resilience in the workplace.

Dose of Dilan

What I’m Watching (Besides Love is Blind season 7):

Both the election and a long flight to Nigeria spurred an impulse to rewatch Scandal and all the political drama that comes with it. (Hot take: Fitz is problematic.)

What I’m Listening To: 

The Noble Blood podcast re-telling of Henry VIII and his six wives. It’s how I’m bridging the gap until I see Six on Broadway. For the sassy, gossipy version of the story, go with Even the Royals.    

Side Note: Did I mention the flight to Nigeria is long? I’m taking show, podcast, and book recommendations.

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