How to foster authentic connections during a pandemic

Well, you are not the only one who might have been feeling lonely, lost and isolated. We have been living through a pandemic for the past six months with little light at the end of the tunnel. Some days (for many, most days) just being able to survive is enough. Yes, you deserve recognition for getting through each and every day. Remember you are stronger than you think you are. You are resilient and your coping skills have kept you alive for this long. :)

One of the most important relationships you’ll ever have in your lifetime is with…(drum roll please) YOURSELF. I’m not saying to sound cheesy, but it is oh so true, if you really think about it. You’re there with you from cradle to grave pretty much. Why not take the time, right now, to get to know yourself better and strengthen your relationship with yourself.

Strategies on connecting with yourself more:

* For those who might crave physical touch (yep, it’s also one of my primary love languages), I might suggest you try a self-hug meditation. Put one hand on your heart and the other hand embracing your rib cage. And breathe. Feel your heart and rib cage move and flow.

* Go on an solo “artist’s date,” perhaps a walk in nature, the Japanese garden, or take a different path of walk in your neighborhood.

* Journal. Write out your feelings, all of them. No censorship needed. While you may have the tendency to please others, your notebook is not one of them whom you need to please 😉 Okie?

As you’re also social, interdependent beings, it’s also extremely crucial to connect with others who care about you. Maintaining authentic connections requires vulnerability. Well, being human is vulnerable and is a lifelong process of getting to know yourself better while strengthening connections around you.

Strategies on connecting with others:

* Invite a friend to a virtual game (like chess)

* Video call happy hour (set up a time)

* Send them a handwritten letter or a small gift (ideas include a magazine subscription, a book, their favorite snack)

* A COVID-friendly sport that I might suggest is playing tennis, a sport that I have picked up again in the past month after 15 years of playing.

* Ask for help when you need it (ex. Hey, I’ve been feeling disconnected. Would you like catch up with you this week when you’re free.)

I know how you feel, though. Maintaining real connections can take a great deal of vulnerability, like being the one who initiates first. Sometimes, you wish the other party would initiate more…to reach out. Also, understand that they may be going through their own stresses and worries, too, so if it feels right for you to reach out and maintain a sense of joy and connection, then don’t think twice and just do it.

Wishing you a well-connected season!