Connect Meaningfully

One of the key problems I’ve observed in society is that over time as people age, they become more distant and isolated. Many times it’s tied to the physiological affects of aging. Loss of family or friends, chronic illnesses, and other factors can contribute to a forced layer of loneliness.

Some of us begin that journey of isolation earlier in life. Whether because of hurt, past trauma or not learning to connect at a younger age. Technology does not help as it can be a source of so many distractions, causing us to struggle to truly listen and be present. Society is also busier than ever. Most of us are in relationships or families where two or more adults need to work full time jobs to keep the family afloat (not including side hustles, side hustle anyone??).

It’s the quality of our connections that so heavily influences our mental health and emotional wellbeing. A meaningful connection is a two-way street. Both parties are getting something from the relationship. The meaning is key. The ability to share vulnerability, common interests, values, and interests are examples of meaning.

To build a meaningful relationship, you have to care about it, commit to it, and then hold yourself accountable to that commitment.

So how do we connect?

Here’s a few examples of how -

• Hardest: Really listening to somebody else share and truly empathizing.

• Harder: Helping someone even when there is nothing in it for you.

• Hard: Giving and receiving sincere gratitude.

• Easy: Catching a stranger’s eye and sharing a smile.

I would start small. But we like anything else, we have to start. Because creating a environment where we can connect meaningfully leads to a healthier, happier life.