On this episode of The Karen Kenney Show, I dive into the power of an invitation - the good, the bad, and the just plain weird.

I share some personal stories about how our culture has shifted from the old days of friendly, unannounced visits - to a time when people practically hide when the doorbell rings.

Growing up as a kid, I remember it was totally normal for family or friends to drop by with donuts and coffee on a Sunday morning. 

But nowadays… a “just stop by anytime” invite often feels more like a brush-off than a warm welcome.

So, it got me to thinking about how the language and tone we use in our invitations can make all the difference.

Like how a vague offer of “you can come if you want to” - doesn’t really make anyone feel wanted; in fact, it can sometimes sting a little.

I also get into the nitty gritty of why direct, heartfelt invitations matter so much.

Because when someone takes the time to reach out with intention - you feel seen, valued, and truly part of the fold.

This episode isn’t just about social niceties.

It’s about helping to break down those internal stories or instructions that make us feel like a burden or sometimes, not even worthy of being invited.

Whether it’s old family patterns, cultural habits, or just plain discomfort, a lot of us struggle to ask for what we want -or- to trust that people really want us around.

I share my own experiences and encourage you to reflect on yours, because you deserve to feel included.

My big takeaway?

If you want to build real connection, don’t leave your invitations up to chance.

Be specific, be enthusiastic, and put a little extra love into your ask - whether it’s for a dinner party, a big event, or just a simple hangout.

A thoughtful invite has the power to lift someone up, help them feel like they belong, and make this crazy world a little warmer and kinder! ❤️

KK’S KEY TAKEAWAYS:

•​ The words and tone you use in an invitation can influence whether someone feels genuinely welcomed.

•​ Open-ended invitations like “drop by anytime” often feel halfhearted and don’t leave people feeling truly wanted.

•​ Direct, thoughtful, and enthusiastic invitations help build connection, trust, and a sense of belonging.

•​ Cultural shifts and personal stories shape how we give and receive invitations, sometimes making us hesitant to reach out, accept, or stay a while.

•​ A warm, personalized invite can help break down feelings of unworthiness or isolation.

•​ Making intentional plans, rather than casual or passive invites, shows effort and strengthens relationships.

•​ Going above and beyond by including a personal touch - like a handwritten note or a specific ask – makes your invitations more meaningful.

•​ People want to feel wanted and welcomed; take the extra step to make your invitations sincere and clear.

BIO:

Spiritual Mentor and writer Karen Kenney uses humor and dynamic storytelling to bring a down-to-earth, no-BS perspective to self-development. 

Bringing together tools that coach the conscious and unconscious mind, Karen helps clients deepen their connections with Self, and discover their unique understandings of spirituality.  

Her practice combines neuroscience, subconscious reprogramming, Integrative Hypnosis, somatic work, spiritual mentoring, and other holistic modalities to help regulate the nervous system, examine internal narratives, remove blocks, and reimagine what’s possible.

A passionate yoga teacher, long-time student of A Course in Miracles, and Gateless Writing instructor, Karen is a frequent speaker and retreat leader. Via her programs The Quest and The Nest, she coaches both individuals and groups. 

With The Karen Kenney Podcast, she encourages listeners to shift from a thought system of fear to one of love, compassion, and personal responsibility. 

CONNECT WITH KAREN:

Website: http://karenkenney.com/

Podcast: https://www.karenkenney.com/podcast

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/karenkenneylive/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/karenkenneylive/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@KarenKenney