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Are you socially fit? Here’s how to know

If you are a self-reserved person you might realise that it takes very little for you to be socially drained, people easily exhaust you and when you are in social gatherings you can’t wait to be on your own and recharge.

You might also notice that you are unable to maintain relationships due to your tendency to disconnect and not keep in touch with people.

This might be a personality issue or maybe the fact that you are socially unfit. What do I mean by this? Well, according to the Human Performance Resources publication, social fitness is your ability to assess, build, and optimise relationships with others.

“The connections you build with family members, friends, teammates, and those in your community are key to your overall health and your ability to perform (and be) at your best.”

You know how much socialising bundles you have in you and how much you need to improve, take a look at these factors suggested by experts in this field:

Stay connected online: The above-mentioned publication also states that you need to check your connections, including daily interactions with partners, roommates, and team members, as well as occasional check-ins with friends, neighbours, and colleagues.

Avail yourself: The Health Mill’s publication suggests that you make time for face-to-face connections with your people even with demanding or competing schedules. 

Be empathetic: Empathy and active listening are essential for social fitness, as they foster trust, intimacy, and strong bonds by understanding and empathising with others, according to Spiritual Living for Busy People.

Give back to communities: The publication above also mentions that volunteering is a great way to connect with people. “Not only does it enhance mental health and happiness, but it also imbues a sense of purpose and meaning in life, ultimately contributing to our social fitness.”

Restore lost touch: Forbes publication states that you reconnect with people you like after losing touch, even if you feel funny or fearful. Most people, especially those with a good track record, will welcome you back.

 

Also see: 6 Steps to manage social anxiety using the 54321 method

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