Human Connections in the Always-Connected Era

Maintaining relationships with those that matter

Today, information moves at the speed of light (literally, light over glass fibers or electrons through metal). Our network of peers grows every time we accept that friend request or gain a new follower. Maintaining a network of relationships that large is impossible, so why do we try? Humans crave connection. Humans want to feel validated. Most importantly, humans are selfish. A larger network equals more friends equals a more likable person, in theory. But, if we treat every connection as equal we will quickly lose sight of those key individuals: friends, family, spouses, etc. Would you treat your best friend the same as some random person on the internet? I sure hope not.

Instead of trying to please everybody or be friends with all, we should focus on the key people in our lives.

There are key people in all of our lives, the ones that bring us happiness, insight, and love. Without that core group, a person is incomplete; they are missing a piece of their being. Our closest friends are irreplaceable, so why should we treat them as another face in our vast network? We shouldn’t. Instead of firing off a text message, meet them for coffee or dinner. Spend time with them face-to-face. The subtleties of conversation (tone, inflection, body language, etc.) are lost when communicating in a manner other than face-to-face. Take an interest in what they are up to, what’s going on in their life. Show them that you care by investing the time and energy into learning about them. Most importantly, support them. Again, invest the energy into supporting your best friend. For you, this action takes so little; it is a small gift. But for them, it can mean the world. Think of how you feel when a friend helps you through a tough time. Support is truly indispensable.

In a world where your network grows at the click of the button, it is important to identify the key people in your life. Take an interest in their lives, meet with them face-to-face, and support them through their journey. These actions will reciprocate and come back in the form of support. Do not lose sight of those that matter.