The Power of Human Connections: Building Relationships That Matter
Human beings have a natural inclination to connect with others, form relationships, and engage in social interactions. This social nature is deeply ingrained in our biology and psychology. We are inherently social beings, whether we label ourselves as introverts or extroverts, whether we enjoy solitude or being the centre of attention on social occasions. Most of us are a combination of introverts and extroverts depending on the context and situation.
Introverts will become extroverts in situations where they feel free and safe to express themselves.
Social connection is wired into our nature and a basis for our survival as a species. Throughout human evolution, our ability to cooperate, communicate, and form social bonds played a crucial role in our survival. There was safety in numbers. Working together in groups allowed us to hunt, gather, and protect each other effectively. We also form emotional bonds with family, friends, and communities. These bonds provide us with a sense of belonging, emotional support, physical and economic support and a network of relationships that contribute to our overall well-being.
Today in a global scenario, the concept of finding one’s tribe is well-discussed. We are inherently tribal and seek a sense of belonging.
Humans have developed complex language and communication systems, which enable us to share thoughts, emotions, and information with one another. This communication is fundamental to our social interactions. We have the capacity for empathy and compassion, which allows us to understand others and care for their well-being, thus facilitating cooperation and building even stronger social connections. We have created cultural and social norms that govern our interactions with others. These norms vary across cultures but generally guide our behaviour in social settings. Non-adherence may mean being outcast by society depending upon what is the accepted norm.
Much of our learning occurs through social interactions. We learn from our parents, teachers, peers, and others in our social environment. Children learn by observing and copying what they see being done around them. This social learning shapes our beliefs, values, and skills.
Research shows that strong social connections are associated with greater psychological well-being, reduced stress, and increased happiness. Loneliness and social isolation, on the other hand, have negative effects on mental health.
I remember a seminar in which a lovely lady was introducing herself as ‘single by choice and very happy’ and the speaker asked her ‘By whose choice?’ and then went on to ask her if there were amazing potential partners around her that she was ignoring by choice because we are meant to have and thrive in supportive relationships including intimate relationships. She sheepishly admitted that she was on the lookout and hadn’t found anyone to partner with after her last relationship ended badly. She was scared of betrayal.
This had me thinking about how often people are once bitten and twice shy in entering into a new relationship just because one turned sour and it is obvious that they do crave the companionship and support that a stable relationship provides. By closing themselves off they are blocking their chance to a future of lovely companionship, which becomes even more important as we age.
Fortunately for the young lady in question, she did find someone that she went on to create a solid relationship with and years later, they are very happy together.
Our social nature is deeply rooted in our biology and has been essential to our survival and development as a species. Recognizing and nurturing our social connections is not only important for our individual well-being but also for building strong families, communities and societies. It is a fundamental aspect of what it means to be human.
Today, there seems to be a strong stress on the individual and a loosening of social ties overall. We are connected digitally and disconnected socially and in our relationships. Our attention span is getting shorter and shorter. Over time, this is taking and will continue to take a toll on our mental and eventually physical health.
I work with a lot of people and one recurring theme is loneliness. The feeling of being alone inside relationships, in the midst of crowds, in social settings. We seem to have lost the art of conversation, which is limited to necessary social niceties, and social situations where we show up but where we are mentally absent. We are undermining our own fundamental need for connection and this lays the ground for all kinds of addictions.
A seed takes time to grow before it becomes a mature plant or a tree that produces fruit.
It is important to build nurturing relationships with patience, understanding and love and even reconnecting with old friends can have several significant benefits and advantages for all concerned. This is almost like tending to an orchard that you had forgotten about!
Nostalgia and fond memories nurture us. Reconnecting with old friends often brings back cherished memories and experiences from the past, which can be a source of comfort and happiness. Old friends are often familiar with your history and can provide a unique form of social support. They can help rekindle inside you passions that you have forgotten or lost sight of. Having been a part of a phase in your life, they understand your background and may be able to offer valuable advice or simply be a listening ear. Reconnecting can reignite the bond you once had. It is a great opportunity to rekindle a friendship that may have faded due to time or distance or to create a new one based on your life experiences and philosophy. You may find that you still have common interests or shared experiences, making it easier to relate to each other and deepen your friendship.
An added benefit is that it can provide you with an expanded social network through meeting their current friends and introducing them to yours. This can be particularly beneficial for personal and professional growth and a win-win for all concerned. We thrive on great social connections.
Maintaining connections with old friends contributes to your overall emotional well-being. It increases feelings of belonging and reduces feelings of loneliness and your friends are a valuable source of support during challenging periods in life. They offer empathy, advice, and a sense of camaraderie that cannot be undervalued. Friendships are comforting and have been linked to increased happiness and life satisfaction.
Reconnecting can expose you to new perspectives and ideas, as your friends may have had different life experiences and insights since you last connected. This will lead to shared learning and growth in a meaningful way.
Take time away from your distractions to nurture your relationship with yourself, and then nurture existing connections with love and compassion and create new ones.
Every human being is potentially a great connection to move you forward on the path of life. As you go along, you learn to discern with experience and find your tribe!
As a mindfulness practitioner and life-design coach, I help clients focus on well-being and personal growth and make life choices that prioritize their mental and emotional health. I work with them to resolve confidence issues and Imposter Syndrome. This leads to personal freedom and independence allowing the person to blossom and manifest the life they deserve. If you’re looking to expand your horizons and/or overcome issues, connect with me.