In this BIT: Our top tips on how to connect with people, specifically boosting family connection. Also, learn why socialization is vital to happiness, and how to make more friends.
According to professor and psychologist, Sonja Lyubirmirsky, connection is the top way to feel happier. Spending time with people whose company we enjoy is certainly a Small Bit of Happiness. On a deeper level, why does connection drive happiness? Read on to learn more!
Dating back to its start in 1938, The Harvard Study of Adult Development is the longest running study. This study has identified multiple factors to finding more happiness, however the most prominent and key component to a happier life was found to be quality relationships, and socialization through social and family connection. “What we found was that the important thing was to stay actively connected to at least a few people, because we all need a sense of connection to somebody as we go through life,” Dr. Waldinger, the director of the study, stated on the podcast, Chasing Life. In this ongoing project, Dr. Waldinger shared that individuals who have found quality relationships not only feel happier, but also live healthier and longer lives. But how does all of this work?
The answer comes down to stress. Think about this. What do you do after a bad day at school or work? Do you tell your sibling or parent on the drive home? Call a close friend to vent? The simple act of releasing the stress pent up from the day by sharing the events of the day can remove much of that pressure on your body. Isolated individuals, who lack social connection, hold onto stress more than those whom hold close relationships. Withholding one’s feelings results in negative consequences. “They have immune systems that don’t function as well, so they get infections more easily,” Dr. Waldinger says, “and that chronic inflammation breaks down body systems.”
All right, so to feel happier we need to spend time with friends and family. However, we may feel as though we crave these connections, but lack them in our lives. How can we build better and stronger relationships with friends and family so we are less isolated? Try these hacks:
Although this can feel contradictory, build up your social network, especially when first setting out to grow your social connectivity. Start by introducing more people into your life by trying new activities or by joining a community. Volunteering, for example, for a cause that you believe in, is a good place to look. Through spending time doing things that you enjoy, you can find like-minded individuals.
Notice people who make you feel good and happy. Try to strengthen your relationship with them! Invite them to spend time with you one-on-one, or even in a smaller group setting. A huge tight-knit friend-group isn’t necessary, even just one or two close friends can be all one needs. Socialization does not need to involve a high quantity of people!
Understand that people (including you!) will be constantly changing. Sometimes, we may notice that our old friends are no longer as close as we used to be – this is normal. Simply because one friend isn’t as close as before, doesn’t mean you have to push them away entirely. It’s okay to have a network of friends with whom you aren’t as close as you were previously. When this happens, focus on your new relationships or putting yourself out there more.
When we find people who energize us, bring out our best-self, and are understanding of our emotions, we can connect on a deeper level and find more happiness. These positive social relationships and connections are essential to finding more happiness on a daily basis, as well as building a positive mindset and lifestyle.
We hope that this inspires you to reachout to someone you care about, boost your socialization, or embark on a journey to finding a new close friend, bringing you a Small Bit of Happiness.
For more happiness check out our Mood Boost page.
Featuring quick videos created for teens by teens.
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