Socializing in an Unsocial Age
The beginning of summertime is always tricky. On the one hand, there’s so much socializing and fun things to do. On the other hand, there’s SO much socializing and things to do! It’s exhausting! How do you get everything you need to do taken care of and still have a little gas in the tank to get out and do something fun? I don’t know about you but this is when my inner hermit takes over and wants nothing more than to cuddle up on the couch in some soft jammies with my dog and watch Netflix!
So how do you decide? Sure, you really need to get out of your comfort zone and mingle a little. But the comfort zone is so comfy! Here’s why it’s important to push yourself:
Sometimes Socializing Requires Effort
As an introvert, even getting out and hanging around people I like can be a major task for me. One reason I got into radio was because it forced me out of my shell and made me face my worst fears: other people! What I’ve learned about myself over the years is that I genuinely like people, from afar. For one thing, I’m just not that great at small talk and I long to connect with others on a deeper level and most social situations are not really conducive to that. Superficial relationships are really draining to me, I honestly feel tired after being around a large group of people. But there are upsides to forcing yourself into social situations.
Socializing For Your Mental and Physical Health
Socializing can not only counter feelings of loneliness but studies from the Mayo Clinic show it also helps with sharpening memory as well as your cognitive skills. It increases your sense of happiness and your well being and it can even help you live longer! Because as humans we’re built to be social animals by nature, we tend to function better overall when we’re part of a community and taking part in activities with those we have things in common with. So socializing is actually good for your mind and body!
In the end, it’s all about finding a good middle ground. Get out and enjoy yourself but take some time to focus on yourself as well. We only get this one go around, might as well make the most of it!
Summer In Augusta Bucket List - Finding New Adventures Close By
Beach Trips
Yes, I know this isn’t IN Augusta. But thankfully, we have some great beaches relatively close by that make for a great day trip. So the plan this summer is to take at least 3 day trips to the beach! There’s something refreshing about having my toes in the sand and feeling the wind and waves. It does my soul good, and I need to do more things that do that! So, whether it’s Beaufort, Isle of Palms, Folly Beach, or any other beach, my goal is to have myself on a beach a minimum of 3 times before September!
A beautiful sight! Nothing makes my heart happier than the beach.
Go To A Baseball Game
I have been to quite a few Augusta GreenJacket games at SRP Park, but not recently. In fact, I’m not sure we made it out there at all last season. And that’s a shame. I do truly enjoy having the opportunity to watch some baseball that’s so close to home. I’m not one to watch much baseball on TV, but I love being at a ballpark to enjoy a game. This year, we’ve got to make it to at least ONE game… but maybe more!
The Augusta GreenJackets took the field ahead of the game to get in a warm-up!
