I had always been a social butterfly, flitting from one event to another, surrounded by a flurry of friends and acquaintances. I was either constantly busy with social events or feeling disconnected and alone. I knew I needed to make a change, but I didn’t know where to start.
All it takes is that first step towards reflecting on the meaning of living
One day, I decided to take a small step by reaching out to an old friend I. I have always had this guilt in me because I used to bully her in secondary school, and yet we said goodbye many years ago without saying a word to one another. To my surprise, she was thrilled to hear from me and we quickly made plans to meet up. It felt good to reconnect with someone from your past and to reflect back on old memories.
We talked so much about how “adult” life has made us forget the true meaning of living. I was just trying to survive, not to live.
I decided to set some new boundaries for myself. I started saying “no” to social events that didn’t truly interest me, and made sure to take time for myself to recharge my social batteries. I also started seeking out new social opportunities that aligned with my interests, like joining a book club and volunteering at a local charity.
I bet many young people have the same experience as I do.
Here are some actionable changes you can make to get closer to a balanced social life.
1. Embrace Vulnerability
Opening up to others and sharing your struggles can be scary, but it’s important for building meaningful connections. Don’t be afraid to share your feelings with trusted friends or seek support from a therapist or counselor on campus. Vulnerability can lead to deeper connections and a greater sense of belonging.
2. Build a Support System
Surround yourself with like-minded individuals who share your academic and personal goals. Join online communities like Study with GenZ on Facebook or use websites like LEAN Social to find study buddies who can help keep you motivated and accountable. Building a strong support system can make all the difference in achieving success in university.
3. Practice Active Listening
Listening is a crucial skill for building strong relationships. Practice active listening by fully engaging in conversations and focusing on what the other person is saying, rather than just waiting for your turn to speak. This will help you connect with others on a deeper level and foster empathy and understanding.
4. Show Gratitude
Expressing gratitude is a powerful way to strengthen connections and increase feelings of happiness and well-being. Take time each day to reflect on the things you’re thankful for and express appreciation to the people who have positively impacted your life. A simple “thank you” can go a long way in strengthening relationships and creating a positive social environment.
Taking steps towards good social health can be a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be. By taking small steps, like reaching out to friends and family, setting boundaries, and taking time for yourself, you can start to feel more connected and balanced in your social life. Don’t be afraid to take the first step towards a healthier social life – you won’t regret it!
What do you think?
