Building meaningful Human Connections
Humans need each other in multiple ways. All of us need someone to share companionship and express feelings. Appreciation and the feeling of being connected are our basic psychological needs. And to be felt loved is a constant desire. The sense of belonging keeps us glued to a society. For which, during the span of our lifetime, we make many human connections. These social connections are essential for happiness in our relationships.
There are two types of relationships that we have in our life. Some are gifted to us from birth, while others are chosen by us at various stages of life. However, both kinds require continuous efforts to maintain the love and connection in the relationship. Building meaningful connections for a lifetime is difficult as it needs constant inputs from both the people involved in the relationship.
Here are some simple steps that you can follow to build meaningful human connections.
Be a good listener
In a relationship, both the people should be comfortable enough with each other to share their minds. During a conversation, it is equally important to listen as well. While talking to your friend or partner, put all your devices aside, and give keen attention to the person speaking to you. Be patient, and do not judge the opposite person on whatever he wishes to share. Show a kind understanding and make them comfortable while talking to you. Maintaining eye contact helps build comfort.
Create special moments
Don’t wait for birthdays or anniversaries to celebrate. Turn a casual day into a special one by preparing a special dinner or plan a reunion with old friends. Small surprises now and then also work well in creating memorable occasions. These little efforts show that the relationship matters to you. Creating special moments like these help form strong bonds of human connection.
Step out of the digital world into the real one
If you feel you are being over-involved in your digital space, then it could affect your relationships in the real world. Spending more time on mobile phones or laptops can instigate a feeling of loneliness as well. You will know that you have stepped into that phase when you have more friends on Facebook than in real life. Step out in the real world, meet new people, hang out with old friends, talk to strangers, and listen to their stories. The real world is where human connections happen.
A balance between pets and Human Connection
Extreme attachment to your pets is also considered a cause of loneliness. It is natural for a person to slip into the comfort zone of staying indoors with the company of their pet. Followed by canceling plans with friends and avoiding people. Is your dog also a substitute for your friend? If yes, then it is time to maintain a balance between pets and human relationships. Instead of isolating yourself from society, reconnect with friends and family. Pull yourself to places that are full of people and spend more time with them.
Don’t let one failed relationship affect your other relationships
It is common to feel lonely and disconnected after a heartbreak. One unhappy end to a relationship can affect the way you look at other people in your life. Talk to your closest person and open your heart out. Sharing your fears helps you face them. It will take time but allow yourself to heal little by little. Don’t be scared to take a second chance.
These small tips will help you make your human connections strong and enduring. Long, happy relationships are based on the efforts put behind human connections.