There are different types of connection, and all are important.
These include:
Closest circle of friends & family Social circle of quality friendships & support Solitude — or connection with yourself. Research shows that if any of these are lacking, it can lead to loneliness.
Researchers have identified three dimensions of loneliness to reflect the particular type of relationships that are missing. Intimate, or emotional, loneliness is the longing for a close confidante. Relational, or social, loneliness is the yearning for quality friendships and social companionship and support. Collective loneliness is the hunger for a network or community of people who share your sense of purpose and interest. These three dimensions together reflect the full range of social connects humans need to thrive. The lack of relationships in any of these three dimensions can make us lonely. - Together by Vivek Murthy
For example, I wanted to work on solitude and making connection with people in my community. I started spending more time by myself intentionally, taking time to journal or read. I went to local coffee shops and made small talk. Each of these efforts made me feel more connected to myself & feel like part of a community.
✅ Which area(s) of connection do you want to strengthen?
<write your area(s) here>
Research also shows that focusing on your strengths increase your wellbeing. Knowing your strengths can help identify ways you might want to connect with others or spend your time in solitude.
✅ Then, list your top 3 strengths here 👇
For example, I found that my top strength was love of learning. Knowing this, I searched for online classes that I was interested in and looked for workshops in my area. I signed up for an improv class & completed yoga workshops. These all introduced me to new communities while also increasing my happiness.
Bonus tips (backed by science)
🎪 Experiences bring more happiness than material possessions () 🌳 Spending time in nature increases well-being () 🙏 Gratitude helps build strong relationships & happiness ()
Now that you know where you want to increase connection, you can browse