The value of simply showing up

Lately at Disruptive Thinking, we’ve been spending more time out and about, catching up with clients, meeting new contacts, and sitting down with people face-to-face. And honestly? It’s been refreshing.

It’s easy to fall into the rhythm of back-to-back video calls. They’re efficient. They save travel time. They get the job done. But over the past few weeks, we’ve been reminded that ‘getting the job done’ isn’t the same as really connecting.

When you’re in the same room as someone, the dynamic changes. Conversations feel more natural. You notice the pauses, the tone, the body language, all the subtle signals that don’t translate through a webcam. Ideas spark more freely. Energy builds. You walk away not just with a to-do list, but with a stronger sense of understanding.

There’s also something powerful about stepping into another person’s environment. Sitting across from them and experiencing their world, even for a short time, builds empathy and trust in a way that’s hard to replicate on screen. And the small talk before the meeting, the laughter over coffee, the quiet reflection at the end all help to build relationships that last.

And beyond all the practical benefits, it just feels good. After a few years of digital-first everything, there’s something tonic about being in the same space as another human. It reminds you why we do what we do, not just delivering work, but building partnerships, sharing ideas, and growing together.

We’re really enjoying it. Each in-person meeting has given us more energy, more perspective, and more confidence in the value of showing up. And it’s made us ask ourselves: are we making the most of the opportunities to get out there and connect in real life?

Maybe that’s a good question for everyone to ask themselves. Because as useful as screens are, there’s no substitute for simply showing up.