Being a social butterfly isn’t always all it’s cracked up to be! Sometimes, engaging in a lot of social relationships can feel draining, and that’s only natural. So what does it mean to be socially healthy? What are the main pillars of having balanced and healthy social connections?
Let’s dive in!
#1 Fostering Trust And Sincere Connections
Forging friendships may appear to come so easily to some people, but finding and fostering relationships that are genuinely meaningful can be a very rare thing — a once in a lifetime kind of occurrence. It can prove very liberating to experience trust and sincere feelings of ease when we’re discussing our emotions and thoughts, knowing that we’re not being scrutinized or judged, and that we’re not exposing ourselves.
#2 Clear Communication
It’s invaluable to know that what we’re expressing is being heard, understood, and validated. Having said that, it’s also crucial to recognize that communication is a two-way street. Voicing our opinions and thoughts clearly and safely is just as important as practicing empathetic listening. Paving the way for clear communication can help us gain a better understanding of one another’s needs, as well as nurture a sense of empathy within us for our friends’ emotions.
#3 Participating In Events
Being an active member in our social group(s) can take many forms based on our preferences, so here are a few ideas that can help inspire you!
1. Volunteering. Offering a helping hand to an area or cause of our choice is a great way to build connections and enjoy a sense of personal fulfillment. Showcasing our support can evoke a sense of unity and togetherness in the communities we’re helping and within ourselves too. It’s a win-win situation!
2. Showing up at social gatherings and events. Being there for people, whether it’s a formal event or a simple get-together, can help us strengthen our bond with one another, be it with family members, partners, or friends. The possibilities are limitless, and you never know who could step into your life and change it for the better!
3. Enrolling ourselves in activities or workshops we find interesting. Traveling to see new places, even if they’re domestic, can also be a nice experience that helps renew our interest in meeting new people, and making new friendships!
#4 Understanding, Setting, And Respecting Personal Boundaries
The beauty of establishing boundaries is that we’re the ones who set the grounds of what we’re comfortable discussing, and what we’d rather keep to ourselves. It’s all in assessing and reflecting on which topics may be sensitive subjects to discuss, and knowing how to handle a situation where someone doesn’t respect those boundaries and crosses a line. Having said that, think of personal boundaries, and even communication in general, as a two-way street. This means understanding and respecting one another’s boundaries in order to maintain a harmonious and considerate bond.
#5 Attending to Our Needs
Sometimes, we can get overworked by being there for a friend, and ultimately putting their needs above our own. While this is, of course, very noble, harboring a balance where we don’t compromise our own wellbeing is essential for our health. Practicing self-care, saying “no” when we truly can’t do what they’re asking of us, and fully committing to our wellness are all ways we can look after ourselves. Treat yourself the way you would treat your best friend.
So when it comes to it, being socially healthy really boils down to what your perception of social wellbeing is. Keeping the five pillars we discussed in mind, fostering your social wellbeing can come in the form of strengthening the relationships we already have, making new friendships, or even exploring different communities. It’s all about what makes you happy and comfortable!
Unlock the ways to build and maintain meaningful relationships now with Holisticly’s very own Virtual Coach, Holi!