Whether you are a private person or outgoing in nature, building deep and lasting human connections in life is a challenge faced by many. Yes, we most definitely share our joys and sorrows with family, partners, and close friends, yet we yearn for deep and healthy relationships.
Years ago, when technology was just an idea, there was little people could do to not feel isolated or disconnected. That was a different time. Today, however, in the age of social media, we are virtually connected with everyone across the globe, but the sense of loneliness is prevalent now more than ever. So much so that World Health Organisation has declared loneliness a public health concern. So, why does this paradox exist?
A growing sense of responsibility could be one reason. A nine to five job, taking care of your family, spending time with your partner—there’s hardly any time left to make meaningful connections. Technology addiction could be another reason why you can’t make a real connection. It’s simple math. When you spend most of your leisure hours scrolling and browsing, how would you find the time to nurture relationships?
According to a Harvard study, the longest research conducted in the history of happiness and mental wellbeing, “Close relationships, more than money or fame, are what keep people happy throughout their lives. Those ties protect people from life’s discontents, help to delay mental and physical decline, and are better predictors of long and happier lives than social class, IQ, or even genes.” Even at work, people feel more satisfied and happy, when they have healthy relationships with others.
Building deep, meaningful relationships is difficult, but not impossible. All you need is willingness combined with the right attitude and actions.
Be who you are
Making real connections can be a long and arduous journey if you can’t be yourself in the company of others. This tendency of pretending to be someone else is quite common among people. Many do this due to the lack of self-confidence, or to avoid rejection and embarrassment. In order to build real relationships, you must first be willing to drop the mask.
Take the first step
Several wonderful experiences never see the light of day—including relationships—because we’re too afraid to take that first step. Imagine two people who could go on to become the best of friends or partners do not because they shy away from taking the first step of building the relationship. It could be out of fear, lack of time, or ignorance. If you are guilty of this, don’t deprive yourself of a beautiful, meaningful relationship. Take that step.
Whether private or outgoing, many struggle to establish profound connections due to various reasons, including time constraints and technology addiction.
Despite virtual connectivity through social media, the prevalence of loneliness has increased, leading to its recognition as a public health concern by the World Health Organisation.
Building deep connections requires willingness, authenticity, and appropriate actions to foster healthy relationships.
Authenticity and acceptance of flaws create a sense of security, fostering an environment for healthy relationships to flourish.
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