No One Makes It Alone
" No one - absolutely no one - is meant to go through this life alone." Maya Angelou
The reason I felt this quote was important enough to put on my website is not because I believe everyone should be in therapy. Rather, it is because I think we all need others in our life (and not just virtually.)
We Need Real Life Interaction With People.
While there are beneifts to email, facetime, and all the forms of social media, there are drawbacks as well. The one I find most poignant, is it promotes a sort of emotional and sometimes physical isolation, as well as disingenuous interaction.
We all have a need to connect with others in a real, meaningful and face to face way where we can see facial expressions. These interactions are what allow up to really sympathize and empathize. I am not suggesting we bare our souls to everyone. Others need to earn our trust. However, if we do not have meaningful interactions, then no one gets the opportunity to earn that trust.
How Do You Make It Happen?
- Have a Meal With Someone
- We are quick to set up meetings over coffee, but take a little extra time out of your day to sit and talk over a full meal.
- Take a Walk With a Friend
- Whether it's a walk or another activity, taking the time to do an activity with someone you care about facilitates meaningful interaction.
- Volunteer
- Take a little time each month to volunteer at a hospital or nursing home. You can gain an appreciation for another's experience and may make new friends in the process.
- Get to Know Your Neighbors
- You have a support system right outside your door if you take the time to get to know the people who live around you.
- Find a Club or Group to Join
- Having a community of people with similar interests can give you one more outlet for connecting with others.