Making Connections, Improving Resilience

Across the globe, the novel coronavirus has caused a palpable shift in the way relationships and human connections are cultivated. People are now encouraged to physically distance themselves from their usual social communities and refrain from non-essential activities outside their homes.

While these measures are necessary in our new COVID-19 world, it is important to continue to foster and strengthen our interpersonal relationships.

Studies have shown that human connection can ease pain and reduce physical symptoms of stress. Something as simple as saying “hello”, to getting an offer of help from a stranger, or even looking at a picture of someone you love can lift your spirits. The science is clear: Social connectedness is an important ingredient of mental health and resiliency.

Now more than ever, we should ask ourselves how we can counter the lack of social interaction by transforming our connections to richer and more meaningful ones – not only amongst our immediate families but also in the workplace.

Here are some tips to strengthen our social connections, with a little extra effort and intention:

1. Schedule Meetings and Show Up

Scheduling regular social interactions over the Internet can help stave off loneliness and create a new style of community as we work towards a new normal. These virtual meetups can be among friends or colleagues, without a work agenda necessarily. Make the effort to Be There for your community and keep relationships strong with intention.

2. Get Creative and Play

Have you seen videos of the spontaneous outdoor concerts in Italy where neighbours stood on their balconies and sang in a chorus? Create new bonds and memories with your friends by engaging in online games, playing music or exercising together!

3. Prioritise Authenticity and Pay Attention

Fostering real connections with someone – whether it is over the Internet, speaking on the phone or conversing in-person – boils down to the same few guiding principles. To build good relationships, be authentic and pay attention. Being true to yourself and honest in communication, listening attentively and responding with relevant questions are simple keys to fostering a genuine relationship.

4. Personalise Your Communication

During this time when we are not able to meet up and observe physical changes or cues while interacting, try asking how someone’s day was and how they are feeling more frequently than usual. At the workplace, it is also a good chance to think about how to strengthen partnerships with colleagues, partners and stakeholders, by communicating frequently through updates or circulars, or even sending out quick pulse surveys to discuss and address concerns.

5. Give and Receive Support Socially

A big part of cultivating relationships is to first reach out to others, especially those who may be in need. Science has shown that this act boosts neurochemicals that produce positive emotions. In the current climate, this may look like writing a card or letter to someone you care about, dropping off food, volunteering, or making donations to vulnerable groups in society.

Let us build a new culture of support and connection, whether intentionally or spontaneously. By boosting our connections while still maintaining physical separation, we will lift not only our own spirits, but those of our family, friends and community as well – building a common resiliency.

Published On: 14 May, 2020