Pushing Ourselves to Engage: Connection in an Isolation World
In a post pandemic world, society has adjusted to a more isolated, remote lifestyle. We are selective of our activities outside, we push for work from home options, our preference for downtime is to spend it with our close friends/family or pets. It’s easy to fall into a comfort zone where our general social interactions become fewer and farther between. While this may seem like a natural progression—especially for those who find solace in working from home or keeping their social circle small—humans are, at their core, social creatures. Actively engaging with others isn't just about feeling connected; it’s about maintaining our mental health. And this includes
The Mental Health Benefits of Socializing
Research consistently shows that social interactions are crucial for mental well-being. A 2010 study by Holt-Lunstad, Smith, and Layton found that social connection is linked to a 50% increased chance of longevity, while isolation carries health risks comparable to smoking or obesity. When we connect with others, our brains release oxytocin and dopamine—neurotransmitters that help reduce stress and anxiety and improve our mood .
Socializing also helps us feel more resilient in the face of challenges. Studies show that those with a strong social support network are better able to manage stress and bounce back from difficult life events . Isolation, on the other hand, can lead to increased levels of anxiety and depression. Without regular interaction, it’s easy for our thoughts to spiral, and for feelings of loneliness or disconnection to intensify.
Why This Shift to Isolation Can Be Detrimental
During the pandemic, many of us became accustomed to staying home, opting out of casual gatherings, and being selective about our social interactions. While some degree of this is understandable—and even necessary—it can turn into a habit of avoiding the very thing we need most: connection. This new world of curated socializing and working remotely decreases the randomness of our interactions, and sometimes, the spontaneity of reaching out to others. But if we retreat too much, we risk losing the mental health benefits that come with social connection.
In my practice, I’ve noticed this increasing reluctance to engage with others, particularly among clients who work remotely or have adjusted to post-pandemic life with a smaller social circle. Many express feelings of isolation or a desire for connection, but feel too anxious or disconnected to take the first step. It's common to see this resistance, but actively pushing ourselves to engage—even in small ways—can have a profound impact on reducing anxiety and improving overall well-being.
Adapting to a New Social Reality: Connection in the Age of Remote Work
As the push for remote work continues to grow, it’s clear that this is not just a temporary shift but a new way of life for many. The flexibility and convenience that come with working from home are undeniable, but it’s important to acknowledge that this lifestyle also requires us to rethink how we maintain our social connections.
The pandemic mindset of staying home, limiting interactions, and relying on virtual meetings was a necessary response to a crisis—but it shouldn’t define our long-term approach to connection. Now, as we move forward, we need to embrace a more balanced perspective. Remote work can coexist with meaningful social interactions, but we have to be intentional about it. The future may bring more work-from-home opportunities, but that doesn’t mean we should isolate ourselves socially.
Why Connecting Beyond Close Circles is Crucial
While maintaining relationships with close friends and family is essential, it’s equally important to engage with people who aren’t just in our immediate circles. Interacting with individuals who are different from us—whether they have diverse perspectives, backgrounds, or personalities—offers us invaluable growth opportunities.
Engaging with a variety of people helps us practice tolerance and teaches us grace. We learn how to navigate conversations with those who may not share our views, exposing ourselves to alternative ways of thinking. These interactions allow us to cultivate patience, empathy, and understanding—qualities that are increasingly important in a world that can feel more divided.
More importantly, being around people outside our close circle challenges us in positive ways. It helps build resilience, fosters critical thinking, and allows us to stretch the boundaries of our comfort zones. Whether it’s a colleague, a neighbor, or someone at a community event, learning to connect with others who are not exactly like us broadens our worldview and strengthens our ability to adapt.
By intentionally connecting with a wider range of people, we enrich our social lives and deepen our understanding of the world. It’s through these encounters that we gain a more holistic sense of community and belonging.
Tips for Engaging Socially Without Losing the Benefits of Remote Work
While it’s important to maintain flexibility and work-life balance, we can also find ways to engage socially without overwhelming ourselves. Here are a few practical tips:
Start Small: Commit to one social activity per week, even if it's a brief coffee or walk with a friend.
Mix Digital with Physical: Virtual catch-ups are great, but try to balance them with in-person interactions when possible. Physical presence can make a significant difference in how connected you feel.
Combine Socializing with Activities You Enjoy: Whether it’s a workout class, a book club, or walking your pet, find ways to incorporate social interactions into activities you already enjoy.
Leverage Remote Flexibility: Use the flexibility of remote work to schedule lunch dates or attend a local event during non-traditional hours.
Push Through the Initial Resistance: It’s normal to feel hesitation or anxiety when reaching out after a period of isolation. But often, the hardest part is simply showing up.
Moving Past the Pandemic Mindset
While the work-from-home lifestyle is here to stay, it’s essential that we shift our mindset away from the isolation that characterized much of the pandemic. Connection doesn’t have to be sacrificed for the sake of convenience. By making an intentional effort to engage with others—even in small ways—we can enjoy the best of both worlds: the flexibility of remote work and the mental health benefits of human connection.
As social creatures, we thrive when we connect with others. The key is finding a balance that works for this new era of work and life.