Everyone has different social tendencies – as an introvert, the temptation to spend most of my time on my own is strong! But, recognising that we are fundamentally social creatures and the beauty and benefits of having others around us to support us and whom we can support is an invaluable step in achieving and maintaining happiness. Of course, this will come in a variety of formats for the individual – you may LOVE having a lot of people around you and you really feel invigorated and enriched in those situations. Others prefer more intimate and exclusive catch-ups where they can focus their energies on one person at a time. Whatever it is, it is a dangerous position to look at your life and come to the conclusion that you are ‘too busy’ to have a rich social life. Without that ingredient, a lot of other areas lose their flavour. We need others to challenge us, love us, inspire us and we also need to be those things to other people. So, if you are a busy person, make sure that the time you spend connecting with others is not time spent thinking about the million other things you ‘should’ be doing. Be wholly present with that person and invest in a positive interaction with them so that you both leave it in a more positive state than when you began (this doesn’t have to mean ‘feeling’ better, but being a better person in general). Try calling or meeting up with someone today and really focusing on them.
LLUMI Australia 