Part 5 of the 6 Dimensions of Wellness: Social
Well if you’re reading this and it’s NOT 2020 - LUCKY YOU. If you are still somehow stuck in this weird alternate universe - talking about Social Wellness may have a different feel than normal. And honestly? While you may need to find some “work-arounds” - it’s more important now than ever.
Social wellness is all about connecting with others (digitally or in person works here) and what else is it? It’s about contributing to your community - something else we need now more than ever. It also involves:
Developing your interpersonal skills
Cultivating a strong support network that you take from but also contribute to
And again - taking an active role in your community (whether that be in your neighborhood, city or even at your farm)
Here are the 4 practices you’re going to want to start working on right away to have the OPTIMAL social wellness
Develop a support network of friends and family who you talk with regularly
If you’re lucky enough to have even one friend - well that’s pretty damn lucky. If not? The time is now - ESPECIALLY in quarantine - human connection is vital to your well-being.
And if you’re lucky enough to have a strong family unit - you’ve really hit the proverbial lottery. Don’t be afraid to lean on them when you need it. You would want them to do the same thing, right?
If your family hasn’t been the support system you need - I’ve always love the saying “Friends are the family you choose”. How awesome. I’ve lived away from my family for many years, so as great as they are - I’ve worked to build friendships where in the places live. It does take work and no one’s friends are perfect, but it is so worth it.
Work on your ability to relate with people in diverse settings
Sometimes you’re put in an environment with people that you didn’t necessarily choose (at school, work, the farm, ect.).
Being able to find a way to have a relationship with those people is important too. May as well make the most of being in close proximity them. Find some common ground (hint* the location/cause that brings you together is common ground - a good starting point if it feels like there’s NOTHING else) and build on that.
Get involved in school, work and/or community activities
This one takes a little initiative or “get-up-and-go”, if you will. It’s really easy to fall into a day to day routine and miss out on chances to get involved. I am definitely guilty of that.
Causes that present themselves at work and school are low hanging fruit, so start there!
And social media is a GREAT tool to use (in moderation) to find a group of people to join up with in your community around a cause that hits home for you.
Try to deal with conflict in a healthy and respectful way
Yep - I know - easier said than done. Conflict avoidance is an easy route to take. HOWEVER, conflict will happen when you choose to do life with people in it. If you really want to take care and preserve relationships in the long term? Put on your big kid pants and deal with conflict directly, but also with kindness and respect. It will serve you well.
I’ll admit - this particular dimension of wellness is not something I have to work at very hard. I’m an extrovert and I do love being around people. If this doesn’t come as easy for you? This dimension will take you getting out of your comfort zone. I would still strongly suggest you work at the above list. What’s my go-to piece of advice? Start small! Reach out to ONE person, make ONE connection - it can lead to big benefits. Remember - all of these dimensions work together to make you the most well-balanced athlete and person possible.
Have questions about any of the six dimensions? Click the button below to send me and email or set up a time to talk. Would love to hear from you, friend.