ROCK thru to happier living: Key 2 - Relating
by Lee Havenga | July 27, 2023
Hey there, fellow happiness seekers! Let’s dive into the world of happiness and explore how connections to others are crucial in our quest for a more joyful and fulfilling life. As part of its mission to infuse happiness into the world, Action for Happiness
has identified ten activities proven to contribute to a happier existence. Together, these ten keys form the acronym GREAT DREAM. The first “R,” stands for “Relating.” Relating, at its core, involves building and nurturing meaningful connections with others, reflecting our innate social nature.
The ROCK thru principle of Connection defines relating as “a positive, reciprocal bond.” It goes beyond superficial interactions and delves into genuine emotional connections. We form relationships based on mutual respect, understanding, and support when we relate to others. These connections create a sense of belonging and foster a nurturing environment where happiness can thrive.
Holt-Lunstad and colleagues (2010) research found that having strong social connections is associated with a 50% increased likelihood of longevity, comparable to the effects of quitting smoking. Another study by Lyubomirsky et al. (2005) revealed that engaging in positive social interactions and building close relationships positively impacted overall happiness levels. If you’re a data geek like me, you can delve into the research that highlights how fostering positive relationships contributes to a happier and more content life.
Connecting with another soul ignites happiness.
CONNECTION
Apply it
“I wish I’d had the courage to express my feelings” and “I wish I had stayed in touch with my friends” are two regrets that underscore the significance of Connection. Humans are social creatures, and fostering meaningful relationships is vital for our well-being. We create a foundation of support, love, and shared experiences by expressing our emotions honestly and maintaining Connections with loved ones. Nurturing relationships allows us to live a life rich in love, compassion, and understanding.
KINDNESS
Apply it
5 ways to practice Relating, today
- Cultivate Empathy: Practice active listening and try to understand others’ perspectives. Show genuine interest in their thoughts and feelings, and offer your support when needed.
- Strengthen Existing Bonds: Reach out to old friends, family members, or colleagues you haven’t spoken to in a while. Reconnecting can rekindle positive emotions and create lasting memories.
- Join Clubs or Groups: Find communities that share your interests, whether a sports team, book club, or volunteering organization. Shared activities help build meaningful connections with like-minded individuals.
- Tech-Free Time: Intentionally engage in specific daily activities without your phone. Designate mealtimes without phones at the table or spend quality time with friends forgoing taking pictures and social media updates.
- Forgive and Let Go: Holding grudges can weigh heavily on your happiness. Practice forgiveness for others and yourself to free up emotional space for more positive interactions.
Don’t underestimate the power of relating to others in a world full of material and electronic distractions. Building strong bonds can be a game-changer in your pursuit of happiness. So, let’s ROCK thru to happier living by embracing the magic of relating in our daily lives. Your happiness journey starts now – go out there and forge those meaningful connections!
XO ~ Lee
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