By Sarah Wylde

Human connections matter. We need each other, the feeling of being supported, understood, loved, and valued. We need a link to other people. We crave it. It is part of us. It is the knowledge of having shared experiences, relatable feelings, ideas, and belonging to something other than ourselves. The main issue we face is that we are at a time where people live in two worlds: the physical world and the digital one.

Connecting with others is a big part of life. No, I am not talking about USB or Bluetooth connections. Sadly, a lot of us have traded in face-to-face relationships with virtual ones. They are shopping online, eliminating talking to others. More friends on social media that you never see in person or have meaningful conversations. They are just a name and number that is mistaken for real interactions. Don’t get me wrong; technology and social media is a great thing to use for communicating. I do not think they can be used to get a genuine connection with each other.

In my experience, meaningful connections can hit you fast. It is easy to talk to the person because there is something about them that draws you to them. It also matters who we choose to surround ourselves. The more negative the person is, the more of a toxic relationship that connection could turn out. Try to move towards the positive energy of people.

Being with family, friends, and our community is part of our wellbeing and mental health. We can learn a lot from each other when we listen to what the other is saying.

If you are struggling or are looking for new ways to meet others, you can always do one of the following:

•    Join a club or group activity.

•    Volunteer for a cause you believe in to meet like-minded people.

•    Do random acts of kindness.

•    Introduce yourself to your neighbors.

•    Join a sport.

•    Instead of emailing a response to your co-worker, get up and speak with them.

When you meet someone new, learn their name and use it, so they feel seen and be present when you are talking to them.

Until next time, take care of yourself.

Sarah Wylde