The power of connection!
A world of separation
Conflicts and differing opinions
As conflicts and differing opinions erupt from all sides, deepening an already-present sense of separation, we often forget that we are, first and foremost, social beings, community beings.
Individualism
Our current society seems to value - and I would even say encourage - individualism to the expense of teamwork and community support. We learn to push our personal limits, to climb the ladder based on performance and sometimes even appearance (someone who exudes more self-confidence may have more opportunities for advancement than someone who appears less confident - understandable you might say). We learn to outperform our neighbor… or the competition.
Its harmful effects
All of this has visible impacts on our lifestyle. For example:
While our ancestors lived in clans or tribes, most of us today live only with our immediate family.
Both parents in a household often have their own careers, each with its demands and pressures.
We are more mobile (geographically and professionally), making us less likely to put down long-term roots.
Although we are more electronically connected than ever, we are also more socially isolated than ever.
Caught up in our daily routines, the quality and quantity of our social relationships often decreased or get pushed aside.
Seeing the other side: a world of connection with others!
Connection and personal fulfillment
By following these societal trends, we forget something essential: we thrive when we feel a sense of belonging and connection with others, and we suffer when we isolate ourselves or feel alone.
Isolation and its harmful effects
Isolation is often associated with :
Increased stress and anxiety levels
Higher blood pressure
Increased inflammation
Higher risks of illness and mortality
The benefits of a social network
Conversely, someone who is well surrounded and has a strong social network tends to experience:
Increased life expectancy
Improved cardiovascular, endocrine and immune functioning
Better mental health
Greater resilience to stress
Connection and oxytocin
Oxytocin - released during social interactions - promotes calm and trust, and increases our desire to connect with others.
In conclusion
Let's rediscover the joy of sharing moments with our loved ones - or even new people! Connection with others is incredibly important for our overall well-being!
Need a little support?
Changing a lifestyle is never easy... coaching helps you tap into your intrinsic motivation and move toward the lasting change you desire. I'm here to help you find the answers that align with your needs!
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