Despite an increase in digital connectivity, loneliness is rising. So we asked: how do you forge human connections? Here is what you said
How to forge meaningful human connections
“I always try to have a chat with people when I’m out in the community. People we see in the shops, in the park, on the school run are more valuable than many people realise. It’s important to feel like your local community is actually a community, not just people living totally unconnected lives near each other.” – Kirsty, Staffordshire, England
“I initiated a football WhatsApp group aimed at children living in our neighbourhood. It gets people together once or twice a week to play football (at no cost). There’s no training – it’s just fun.” – Dominic, Bern, Switzerland
“I tend my front garden. Passersby stop to ask about plants, to say how they have been enjoying some particular flowers or just to say hello.” – Amanda, Hertfordshire, England
“I visit my local coffee van and the owner became my good friend. There are often a small gaggle of people there, rain or shine, who I can have a natter with. It gives me authentic connection and fills me up for the rest of the day.” – Rob, Worthing, England
“Smile at people as much as possible, chat on buses and in queues as much as possible, thank people as much as possible, laugh with other people as much as possible.” – Rosalind, Wales
“Always take a moment to look someone in the eyes and smile. Offer courtesy to all, open doors, tell someone you appreciate them and why. Also, offer to make and share a meal with your kids’ friends or someone you haven’t seen in a long time.” – Carma, Alaska, US
I joined a men’s group. We meet every two weeks and talk about successes and things to improve
“As an introvert, I’ve learned that connection doesn’t have to be loud. I build it through family time, thoughtful conversations, shared experiences, and keeping in touch with people who matter to me.” – Chris, UK
“I’ve recently taken on an allotment and it has transformed my life. Not only have I noticed considerable physical and mental health benefits, but I have met lots of new people and feel so much more a part of my community.” – Chloe, Cotswolds, England
“I call instead of texting when I can. People have told me that they find it odd at first but then really come to appreciate the more human touch.” – Abena, Chennai, India
‘Chat on buses and in queues as much as possible,’ – Rosalind. Image: Jose carlos Cerdeno
“Going religiously every week to the local jazz club for live gigs.” – Marie, Tamaki Makaurau, New Zealand
“It’s too easy to stay at home, especially as a remote worker, so I commit to several activities a week. I do pilates, have tennis lessons and sing in two choirs. I also commit to nine holes of golf with friends each week.” – Jenny, New Jersey, US
“Once every couple of months, I go to an adult ‘show and tell’ evening. People are invited to bring an object that means something to them and tell the story behind it. I’m always warmed by how diverse, delightful and generous the sharing and receiving of stories is. I believe the ancient art of storytelling is essential to our humanity, especially now, in the topsy turvy epoch we are living in.” – Kim, Castlemaine, Australia
I never refuse an invitation and I make a point of saying hello to people who are alone
“I bought a dog – I’ve met more people since then than in the previous 18 years!” – Fiona, UK
“When we relocated to the UK, the thought of starting a whole new way of life and connecting with new people was really daunting. We managed it by joining a cycling club of retired cyclists, a walking group, and by volunteering with young children. The most fun of all is helping six-year-old school kids with reading.” – Nisha and Guido, Bristol, England
“I never refuse an invitation. Also, I make a point of saying hello to people who are alone.” – Kay, London, England
“I am not naturally sociable. I sometimes force myself to join a group but never enjoy it unless there’s a meaningful focus. For instance, I enjoy meetings of a small writing group, where meaningful thoughts are shared.” – Hannah, Kent, England
‘I’ve recently taken on an allotment and it has transformed my life’ – Chloe. Image: iStock
“I joined a men’s group.We meet every two weeks and talk about successes and things to improve.” – Martin, New Zealand
“Joined a choir.” – Sue, England
“Deep talk. I try to knowhow others understand the world, and build a stronger connection at the same time.” – Ana, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
“Last year, my partner and I decided to start hosting sidewalk drinks for people in our neighbourhood once a month. We put out chairs, snacks, seltzers and wine and ask folks to bring additional beverages if they like. Neighbours from a wide variety of ages and backgrounds attend and everyone seems to really appreciate the casual gathering.” – Abigail, Rhode Island, US
“I love writing a short note on a book that I’ve read and pop it into one of my free little book libraries. It makes me feel happy to share something with someone else, even if it’s small.” – Nana, Canada
Main image: Vince Fleming
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