The last couple of years have been rough. Social distancing and isolation have amplified the epidemic of loneliness already strangling our societies. And it doesn’t seem like it’s getting better.

Of course, the introverts are having a blast!

But here’s the thing – even introverts need connection. It might look different for each of us, but connection is a part of our design. None of us exist in isolation.

We are social beings.

We belong to the great web of humanity. 

Perhaps this is why research has shown that community and connection are intricate to our recovery and mental health. Healing is activated by togetherness. Addiction is resisted by bonds. Belonging, support and purpose are all essential ingredients of good mental health.

But there is a trick. Being surrounded by people for the sake of not being alone isn’t healthy either. The kind of connection that activates healing is connection that is, in itself, healthy. It welcomes your authentic self, scars and all, and creates a seat of honor for your humanity – faults included.

How do you find this kind of community? CS Lewis (the guy who wrote The Chronicles of Narnia) said it best:

“Friendship is born at that moment when one person says to another, ‘What! You too? I thought I was the only one.”

When we encounter someone who gets us, and we get them, there is a sacred and healing vibe that is born. You become soul-besties. And the healing power of that connection is wild and incredible.

But in order to experience this in our modern, disconnected age we have to be willing to go against the grain, to live counter-culturally, with a heart open to connection and an energy that resists the path of least resistance. (Yes Netflix, were thinking about you.)

How to do this is a bit too hard to summarize in this short text. So here is today’s challenge. During your lunch break, read this article titled, “How to Find your Tribe” and make the choice to do at least one of the steps in the article today.

Loneliness hurts our mental health. Connection heals it. So let’s connect!