We all seek happiness, and research shows that connecting with our families, friends, coworkers, or neighbors significantly impacts our physical and mental health.
Image by Iqbal at Pixabay
Both Maslow’s (1943) theory of human needs and Bowlby’s (1969) attachment theory highlight the importance of social connection. Notably, Maslow placed social needs—encompassing relationships, love, and friendship—at the middle of his hierarchy. This positioning underscores the fundamental role that social connections play in human motivation and well-being. According to Maslow, fulfilling our social needs is crucial for achieving higher-level aspirations and overall life satisfaction.
Bowlby’s attachment theory focuses on early social development and emphasizes the formation of close relationships between children and their familial caregivers. This theory suggests that depression and despair can develop due to breaks in attachments to close individuals.
I realized this summer how busy I have been with my job this past year. I did not spend as much time with my friends and loved ones as I wanted to. I gave much of my free time to my work. Yes, I love and enjoy my job, but my family and friends are essential in my life.
One promise I made this summer was to spend more time with my family and friends.
So, what are your plans for this summer break? Is it time for you to connect and reconnect with your loved ones?
I am spending time with my mother and siblings. I also visited my uncle and cousins in Europe and spent some quality and valuable time with my friends last week. I realized how much I missed just sitting and talking, exploring the city with my friends, and stopping by a coffee shop or restaurant. I felt how happy and energized I became.
Research shows that the quantity of time spent with loved ones has a profound impact on happiness, even more so than having a higher income. In other words, money cannot buy you happiness.
Positive social connections are associated with lower levels of stress, reduced risk of mental health problems, and improved physical health outcomes. Conversely, social isolation can lead to various health problems, emphasizing the necessity of fostering strong, supportive relationships throughout our lives. By prioritizing and nurturing our social relationships, we can enhance our well-being and navigate life’s challenges more effectively.
Start with small things:
- Show your parents (if they are alive) that you care about them.
- Tell your children to call their grandparents.
- Spend special time with your spouse. It is easy to neglect those who are close to us.
- Spend some time with your children. Do different activities depending on their age.
- Send a text message to a friend, sister, brother, or extended family member. You never know what kind of day they had. The other day, my best friend texted me to say she really missed me. I got the message when I needed it.
Don’t regret your life; take the time to spend with your loved ones.
Share your thoughts with me in the comments below. Thanks!
