Should I Stay Or Should I Go? See Why Socializing Is Important
This time of year is always tricky. On the one hand, there’s so many parties and things to do. On the other hand, there’s SO many parties and things to do! It’s exhausting! How do you get everything you need to do on any given day 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 puppy and watch Netflix! But socializing is important for our mental (and overall) health. 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:
Put yourself out there!
As an introvert, even getting out 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. The truth is, most social situations aren’t 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.
It’s science…for your brain
Socializing can not only counter feelings of loneliness but studies from the Mayo Clinic show it also helps with sharpening memory and your cognitive skills. It lowers your risk of dementia and it’s overall good for your brain health. 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 just 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!
Face to face connections
Social media has given us all a false sense of connectedness. Actually getting out and seeing your friends and loved ones in person will benefit you way more than just “liking” some funny thing they post. So go and enjoy the company of your people this holiday season! It might just save your life!
