The Power And Joy Of Reconnecting
In the process of cultivating and nurturing relationships with friends and family, there’s no doubt that we also nurture ourselves. For many people, due to limited social interactions and remote work and just life, many of our friendships that were going smoothly are now feeling the strain.
As human beings many of us thrive on connection and having a strong sense of belonging. Without deep social ties, it’s easy to become dispirited, uninspired, and unempathetic — we’re communal-by-nature creatures who deteriorate mentally, emotionally, and physically if our social needs aren’t met.
After all, we’re each defined and supported by others to some extent. Meaningful relationships make life a happier, more fulfilling experience.
We feel purposeful, motivated to carry on through tough times, inspired when we see other people as good, and we desire to be good people ourselves. Forming healthy, meaningful relationships is therefore both crucial self-care and a happy way to make society better as a whole.
Here are some tips that we have currently been using that you too, might benefit from —even if you’re worried about how you might be received.
We’re re-evaluating our relationships..
There’s never been a more perfect opportunity to reevaluate your friendships. Honestly, ask yourself before reaching out to someone, is this friendship worth nurturing?
Maybe you had a friend who never gave you space. On the other hand, maybe things were one-sided, and you were the only one putting forth the effort. Allow yourself this valuable time to discern what you think is best for you right now and then get to work reconnecting meaningfully.
We’re reaching out.
We tend to have this false narrative that friendship happens organically. In reality, friendships require effort. Without this, your friendships, even the best ones, will wither and fade.
Reconnecting with others is a great way to keep learning and gain a greater sense of inspiration, as well as joy and laughter.
Go out of your way today, even if just a little bit, in order to hold onto and maintain those treasured connections that you hold dear.
You will be thankful for having done so over the big picture of your life.
We’re having honest conversations.
Discussing past experiences has be especially meaningful for us, particularly when it relates to past issues or circumstances that are still relevant.
Opening up about the past and present, has helped us reconnect empathetically in an honestly and authentically way. Which has been a great way to increase our understanding and in turn, has given our relationships the kind of attention, respect, and trust they need to grow.
We have learnt to be accepting..
For many adults young and old, friendships ebb and flow. People change, move away, get married, start families, and get busy.
We’re also learning to be more accepting, we have come to understand that life happens — as we grow and change, there’s no doubt we’ll outgrow connections and maybe even return to them, sometimes becoming even closer than ever before.
Pick up the phone & call.
There are forms of communication that feel more personable than others, despite still being physically distant. Phone calls go a long way in a world of texting and emails.
Try communicating in an easy and direct manner, you might be surprised by how nice it feels to be completely focused and engaged in a conversation.
We’re not waiting for tomorrow...
Whether it is to celebrate the good times or offer a shoulder to lean on in the bad times, your relationships are essential for your happiness and your well-being. Connecting with others gives you a sense of inclusion, connection, interaction, safety, and community.
So, don’t wait for tomorrow, start today and reconnect with the people who were once important to you.
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