Isolation + The Importance of Connection + Belonging Part 1 (The Personal Impact)

One thing that we can always predict in our community is that when our members and other like-souled folks gather at a Tribe event, meaningful conversations are bound to occur. 

When our facilitators bring together clients and attendees from all walks of life, the “small talk” that tends to occupy typical gathering spaces melts away, leaving room for the “profound talk” to arise naturally. 

When our professional members jump into a Notworking call or they pop in to our Get Sh*t Done event, a deeper layer of meaning beyond “just business” is revealed. 

It’s as if we’re all CRAVING to find authentic and meaningful bonds with each other again, even when isolation has become a seemingly normal lived experience over the past few years.

Feeling isolated is a big problem facing many of us, even the introverts! Why? Because Isolation can have a significant impact on well-being, both mentally and physically. 

Some of the ways that isolation can affect an individual include:

1. Mental health: Isolation can lead to feelings of loneliness, depression, and anxiety. It can also exacerbate existing mental health conditions and make it more difficult for individuals to cope with stress and adversity.
2. Physical health: Studies have shown that prolonged isolation can increase the risk of certain physical health conditions, such as heart disease, stroke, and high blood pressure. It can also weaken the immune system and make individuals more susceptible to illnesses.
3. Cognitive function: Isolation can negatively impact cognitive function, including memory and attention, and it can also make it more difficult for individuals to process information and make decisions.
4. Social and emotional development: Isolation can impede social and emotional development, particularly for children and teenagers, and it can also make it more difficult for individuals to form and maintain relationships.
5. Sense of purpose: Isolation can also lead to a loss of a sense of purpose and belonging, which can affect overall well-being and happiness.

So how can we soften the impact of isolation? Let’s look at the importance of Connection + Belonging

Community connection provides individuals with a sense of identity and belonging, which can lead to improved mental and physical health, increased social support, and greater overall well-being. Being a part of a community can also provide opportunities for personal growth, learning, and civic engagement.

Belonging is important as well because it provides a sense of security and acceptance, which can contribute to overall well-being and mental health. When people feel like they belong, they are more likely to have positive self-esteem and self-worth, and to be more resilient in the face of stress and adversity. Belonging also fosters a sense of community and social connections, which can provide individuals with a sense of purpose, social support, and opportunities for growth and learning. 

In addition, feeling like you belong to a group or community can also promote cooperation and a sense of shared responsibility, leading to positive social change and stronger communities.

Now, it may seem elementary, but let’s look at some ways to connect, or re-connect, with others:

1. Join a group or organization that aligns with your interests or values, such as a club, sports team, or volunteer organization.
2. Participate in social events or gatherings, such as parties, picnics, or community events.
3. Reach out to family and friends and make plans to spend time together.
4. Volunteer or serve in the community, which can provide opportunities to connect with others while also making a positive impact.
5. Use social media or online platforms to connect with others who share your interests or passions.
6. Start a conversation with a stranger or reach out to someone you haven’t spoken to in a while.
7. Engage in shared activities or hobbies, such as playing a sport, taking a class, or joining a book club.
8. Show genuine interest and be open to others, actively listening and trying to understand their perspectives.

It’s important to remember that building connections and relationships takes time and effort, but it is a worthwhile pursuit for both mental and physical well-being.

And know that isolation is a complex phenomenon that can have many causes, and it’s not always easy to escape from the cycle. It’s important to reach out to professionals and loved ones for help and support.

In Part 2 we’ll look at the Professional Impact that actively seeking out Connection and Belonging can have on business success and growth.

Written by Cari Rogers, co-owner of Tribe and founder of HealThySelf. Cari loves to partner with people who believe that the body has an incredible capacity to heal under the right circumstances and with the right support.