Grow Your Community

How investing time and energy in your relationships can help you avoid burnout — and feel better, like, right now.

My Dad died last Friday at 97 years of age, and my Mum was at his side for his last breaths. I’ve spent so much time anticipating this moment that much of my grief has already processed — plus, with a life so long and so abundant, gratitude far outweighs my sadness.

What has become hugely clear to me in these few days since he died is how important my community is, in these moments, and always.

Human connection is as essential to our survival as food and water. We are deeply social beings. And yet, we are often so focused on work that we allow our relationships and sense of community to slip down our to-do list, leaving us feeling isolated, unsupported, and even unsafe.

“When people feel they belong to one another, their lives are stronger, richer, and more joyful.” — Dr. Vivek Murthy

Having people in your life with whom you feel safe and seen helps you cope with stress and ride out the storms. Zillions of studies show how important relationships are to our overall wellbeing.