"Loneliness is reaching crisis levels, but Tracy Brower shows how we can turn the tide. In Critical Connections , you''ll learn how to build friendships and communities which strengthen our minds, improve well-being, and help us thrive in life''s challenges." --ARTHUR C. BROOKS, PhD, Harvard Professor and #1 New York Times bestselling author " Critical Connections offers an urgent, research-driven call to reimagine how we form and sustain relationships in workplaces and communities alike, a goal that resonates deeply with my own studies of teams and organizations. Author Tracy Brower beautifully illuminates how authentic connections are foundational to learning, thriving, and resilience--essential ingredients for innovation and growth. This book will be a useful guide for anyone committed to building environments where people feel valued, supported, and empowered to contribute." --AMY C. EDMONDSON, PhD, Novartis Professor of Leadership and Management, Harvard Business School and author of Right Kind of Wrong and The Fearless Organization "In a world increasingly defined by loneliness and isolation, Critical Connections is a vital call to action.

Tracy Brower combines compelling research with practical stories to show that our health and joy depend on the relationships we nurture. As a leader who has seen the power of working in pairs to transform a company culture, I can attest to the truth of Brower''s message: we are stronger, healthier, and happier together." --RICHARD SHERIDAN, CEO and Chief Storyteller, Menlo Innovations and author of Joy, Inc . and Chief Joy Officer "At a time when loneliness and disconnection are increasingly prevalent in our culture, this book provides an essential roadmap for anyone who wants to strengthen relationships and build authentic community." --DORIE CLARK, PhD, Wall Street Journal and USA Today bestselling author of The Long Game "Connecting is the single most important thing we do. Read this book and understand why." --ROBIN DUNBAR, PhD, Evolutionary Psychologist at Oxford University and Originator of Dunbar''s Number "At a time when many feel isolated and overwhelmed, Tracy Brower''s Critical Connections offers both hope and direction. Drawing on the science of relationships, she provides practical tools and fresh insight into how intentional connection can help us thrive at work and in life.

" -- BYRON JOHNSON, PhD, Distinguished Professor of the Social Sciences, Baylor University, and Co-Director of the Global Flourishing Study " Critical Connections arrives as both a manifesto and a road map. With compelling insight and practical wisdom, Tracy Brower reveals what we''ve always known intuitively but often forget in practice. Whether you''re leading a team, facilitating a community, or simply looking for deeper meaning in your work, this book will change how you think about what''s possible when we stop going at it alone." -- MARCUS COLLINS, PhD, University of Michigan, and bestselling author of For the Culture " Critical Connections offers an invaluable antidote to loneliness and disconnection, with research-based insights into how we can strengthen our bonds and foster meaningful personal growth. Tracy Brower provides practical, accessible guidance for cultivating deeper connections and community, making this a vital resource for anyone seeking greater fulfillment in their relationships at work and in life." -- SARA ARMBRUSTER, Former President and Chief Executive Officer, Steelcase Inc. "Half of our happiness comes from our social connections and conversely loneliness is literally a killer. This important book shows the absolute necessity of human connection and how to strengthen connections of all types.

Everyone who wants a longer, happier, and healthier life needs this book." -- PAUL J. ZAK, PhD, Author of The Little Book of Happiness and The Trust Factor "At a moment when so many of us feel disconnected, Critical Connections is a guide back to one another. Tracy Brower illuminates the science and the soul of friendship, reminding us that belonging is not just nice to have--it''s essential." -- INRID FETELL LEE, Bestselling Author of Joyful and Founder of The Aesthetics of Joy " Critical Connections is a timely guide for business leaders navigating the brain economy. Tracy Brower shows how intentional relationships and community are not just human needs, but strategic assets--fueling brain capital, resilience, and long-term competitiveness." -- HARRIS EYRE, MD, PhD, Pioneer of the Brain Economy Transition and Professor, Rice University and The University of Texas Medical Branch " Critical Connections reminds us that effective leadership is ultimately about relationships. Tracy Brower brings clear insight and practical guidance to help leaders strengthen trust, communication, and influence--skills every executive and aspiring leader need to succeed.

" -- JOHNNY C. TAYLOR, JR., SHRM-SC, President and Chief Executive Officer, SHRM "At a time when employees are struggling with anxiety and loneliness at work, Tracy Brower''s Critical Connections offers a much-needed road map for creating a better life at work through building stronger relationships and communities." -- SHALENE GUPTA, Staff Editor, Fast Company and author of The Power of Trust and The Cycle "In a world of ever-increasing social isolation, Tracy Brower has written an important book to teach, guide, and inspire anyone to build connections to achieve a more rewarding and meaningful life. Anyone looking to increase connections (and that should be all of us!) will gain valuable insights and tools from this book." -- SCOTT SONENSHEIN, PhD, New York Times Bestselling Author of Joy at Work and Stretch , and Professor of Management at Rice University.