Humans are designed to be social. We are created with the ability to communicate verbally and non-verbally making it easier to share ideas and be in community. Humans have lived in groups from the beginning and rely on one another to live interdependently rather than alone. Humans have the ability to be sensitive, funny, caring, and nurturing. These traits lend themselves to being social. In essence, humans are made to be social.
Not everyone has the same desire or capacity for socialization, but everyone regardless of the quantity of their social preferences, has the desire to feel wanted and accepted by a group. Even people designated as loners need some form of community.
What is a social life?
A social life consists of our personal preferences for community and how we engage others socially. Our social life includes, but isn’t limited to
- How we recreate
- Who are friends are
- What group activities we participate in
- AND How we engage with our community
Our social life is generally a reflection of our personal interests at any given time and how we express ourselves through recreation or engagement with others. Our social life isn’t limited to what we do for fun though. It can also include-
- How we volunteer
- Time spent with colleagues or peers
- Giving back in our communities
Our social life includes the people in our sphere of influence we engage with and how they impact our sense of belonging.
Why do you need a social life?
Everyone needs social engagement. Even the shyest, introverted or socially resistant people do enjoy socializing, though generally in limited quantities with small groups of people. Being social isn’t about parties and light-hearted engagements. Being social includes doing life with others to-
- Solve problems
- Share work
- Stay mentally acute
- Share ideas
- Feel connected
A healthy social life transfers to a healthy mind and body because being social can help prevent physical and mental illnesses. As a matter of fact, an underdeveloped social life can stunt mental growth in children and lead to early death for elderly people.
Our social lives are part of what makes us human. Being in community with others is part of how we survive physically, mentally, and as a society. Being social isn’t limited to going out on Friday night. It includes having someone to share life with and enrich our experiences. Whether you consider yourself a social butterfly or a lone wolf, being social is part of being healthy.
