Social wealth is a new term I am learning and it focuses on the strength of relationships and the sense of belonging. Words like trust, camaraderie, well being and community all come up in this area. It goes beyond your financial wealth and connects directly to living your best life.
Having good relationships with people is so good for us. Especially a few good, solid important people who you trust and can rely on- AND that you can be that for others, as well.
One big thing to remember is that in the social area of life- you get what you put in. Your efforts to engage in community, to create and take advantage of opportunities to connect with others and to do the work to build strong relationships will pay off.
In the social area of life consider, according to what makes you feel happy- where are you now in the social area of your life on a scale from 1-10? (Ten being best.) What do you imagine would be happening if you said it was a 10? Write out a full description. This is very personal- what is meaningful to you?
What are the first three steps you can take to move yourself in the direction of that vision?
This about friends, attending events, parties, but also where you cross paths with people- if you’re an introvert, like me then the local coffee shop might feel more doable. I love walking my neighborhood and seeing usually at least three people to greet and even have a quick chat with before continuing on. I cross paths with people at a weekly meeting I go to and also at the co-working space I belong to. Where else can you go and what can you do to cross paths with people. Make a good list of all of the possibilities, you don’t have to commit.
How many times in the last year have you put yourself somewhere to connect with others? How often did you initiate? How often did you say yes to invitations? What opportunities did you create? What is most important to you in this area of life?
Take out your pen and paper now to really do some thinking, writing and planning. This about between now and the end of the year. What would you like to create as true for you in this area of your life?
Some of the benefits of connecting with others socially are increased happiness, increased health, and even possibly a longer life. There are many more.