Continuing with our “5 Ways to Wellbeing” Theme, I’ve written this short piece further exploring the concept of connecting with others.
As human beings, our social nature means that positive relationships with others are vital for our overall well-being. Sharing moments with other people has a profound impact on our happiness and feelings of positivity. It also provides a huge proportion of how we learn to function as a member of society and within our on cultures. Had something wonderful happen? Share it and share the joy with others! Had a bad day? Share your experiences with others without fear of judgement, and feel solidarity!
Regular social engagement is crucial, as without it, we run the risk of experiencing loneliness and isolation. Numerous studies have shown the detrimental effects of isolation on mental health and overall well-being, and this has become even more apparent during the COVID-19 lockdowns. In fact, before the pandemic studies conducted by the American Psychological Association (2019) showed that loneliness contributed to raised stress levels, sleep difficulties, and higher levels of depression and anxiety.
Connecting with others is something we can do with little to no cost, whether it’s through face-to-face interactions, phone conversations, or even text messages. There are many communication aids available that enable usto stay in touch with people. However, it’s important not to rely solely on these methods, as an entirely online or virtual existence can present itsown challenges.
Hybrid workers have been shown to report the strongest relationships with others (Wellbeing and resilience report, 2023) which is interesting as their job role usually involves a combination of face to face, virtual and textual interactions. So maybe there is something in having a balance after all! But also it’s what level of contact you’re comfortable with as an individual.
So how can we do this?
Practical ways to foster positive human connections require deliberately taking part in activities that facilitate meaningful interaction. For instance, having a meal together without the distraction of tablets or mobile phones encourages genuine conversation and connection. Playing communication-based games like charades or board games can also be enjoyable, and enhance the bond between individuals. It’s worth noting that connecting with others doesn’t always have to revolve around conversation; simply engaging in an activity together, such as going for a walk, bike ride, or even playing a video game, can still provide the benefits of positive human contact. By actively seeking and nurturing these connections, we can significantly contribute to our well-being and overall happiness.
So if you’re going to change just one thing each day to promote your wellbeing through connecting with others, what could you reasonably commit to? If it helps with accountability, comment below or feel to message it to me!