On Friendship
A couple of days ago, I listened to an interview with Dr. Robert Waldinger, the director of the Harvard Study of Adult Development and co-author of The Good Life: Lessons from the World’s Longest Scientific Study of Happiness.
One of the book’s central takeaways is that strong relationships and meaningful social connections are essential to our happiness and well-being.
This week, I also came across a piece by Derek Thompson called You Are No Longer Invited to Dinner, which explores the decline in Americans hosting friends and family in their homes since 1975.
It was hard to ignore the disconnect here. We need connection and community, yet the ways we gather and spend time with others have changed — and, in some cases, disappeared.
So today, I encourage you to simply notice the state of your social well-being. Give yourself a score out of 10, as you would on our Wellness Wheel.
Then, take one intentional step toward connection. It can be with a partner, an old friend, a new friend, or even a stranger. Perhaps you can plan to host a small get-together this month. You may be surprised just how much you needed it.
Be well,
Annette Furio
Founder, Season Journals
Write It
Journal Prompts
Who knows the most about me?
Who can I call when I’m feeling low?
Who has shown up for me and supported my dreams and goals?
How do I show up for my friends?
Are there ways I can improve my social well-being?
Say It
Affirmations
I invest in my friendships for both my happiness and that of my friends.
My social well-being is worth my time and energy.
Positive friendships contribute to my happiness.
Try It
Action Ideas
There are many ways to support your happiness through social interaction. Try one of these options that resonates with you.
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Host friends at your home this month. Keep it simple and low-pressure.
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Strike up a conversation with a stranger. Research from the University of Chicago found that commuters who talked to strangers on trains and buses reported more positive feelings than those who kept to themselves on their commute. We may underestimate how much we enjoy these small interactions.
- Weave daily social contact into your life. Waldinger emphasizes the importance of social connection in our day-to-day lives. Even brief, routine interactions with others can be opportunities to connect. This is a great way to bring an act of kindness from your Everyday Positive Journal into your day.
Explore It
Resources & Links
Listen to how strong relationships contribute to a happier, healthier life with Dr. Waldinger (NPR & WBUR)
Read the data and one perspective on why we’re hosting others and socializing less than ever before (Derek Thompson Substack)
Listen to the audiobook of New York Times Bestseller, The Good Life. (Spotify)
Listen to an interview with Nicholas Epley, the behavioral scientist behind the Chicago train study. (Spotify)
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