Socializing Just the Way We Like It

We all want to stay close to the people we care about…but our calendars and energy levels can say otherwise.

Why does socializing matter so much to us?

Healthy, uplifting, social connections support our mental health by reducing feelings of isolation, and our connections to our community can increase our overall resilience to life’s challenges.  When our socializing ends up being too much or too often, we can begin to feel like these obligations actually contribute to our anxiety and fatigue.  The key is for us to make our social connections intentional.  Quality over quantity is a key here.

Here are several tips:

Tip #1: Use “Low Stakes Check-Ins”

• Even a quick text, shared meme or voice message can maintain these important connections.
• These gestures don’t require a lot of time, but they do let others know we are thinking of them and care enough to reach out.
• Never underestimate the power of a “thinking of you” note, email or call.

Tip #2: Set Up and Maintain your Social Boundaries

• Let your friends know when you need space…preferably before you have reached your point of overload.
• Using gentle language helps like: “I’d love to catch up next week. This weekend, I’m recharging.”
• Saying “No” is not rejection on your part. It’s regulation.

Tip #3: If You Need To, Create a Personal Connection Schedule

• Set up a weekly or monthly rhythm for reaching out to the people you care about.
• This might look like a plan to check in with one friend on Sundays.
• These predictable touchpoints can help reduce decision fatigue and guilt for not reaching out previously or “too often” for your own mental health balance.

Tip #4: Try Working Socializing Into Your Open Times

• If you have a commute, you can call your friends on your phone hands free.
• I love to call people when I am doing the dishes.
• If you would be listening to a podcast, you can also use the time to call and connect with a friend.

Socializing and maintaining connections are fundamental to our mental health as people, but sometimes we have simply “peopled” enough and need our alone time.  Staying connected doesn’t have to drain you.  Even small, consistent gestures can nourish your relationships without overwhelming your calendar.

 

source https://www.lifesworkclinic.com/socializing-just-the-way-we-like-it/