As we turn our calendars to 2022, many of us are both reflecting on the last year and setting New Year's Resolutions for the next. Not surprisingly, one of the most common resolutions related to living a healthier lifestyle. Whether it’s committing to eating more vegetables, scheduling to go to the gym twice a week, or even building a meditation or mindfulness practice into your daily routine - we all want to build habits that improve our physical and mental health.
But what about social health? The last 20 months have proven how critically isolation and loneliness can affect our overall well being. Now it is more important than ever to consciously consider the way we engage with friends, neighbors, and our communities at large. So, while you’re setting your New Year’s resolutions for 2022, don’t forget to include a commitment to your social health.
To help you get started, we’ve outlined five examples of social health goals that you may want to consider:
- Join a club
Whether you love reading, gardening, knitting, or games - there is a club out there for everyone! Don’t forget that some clubs meet virtually, so in some cases you may not even need to leave the house in order to meet new friends with common interests!
- Volunteer for a cause you care about
It always feels great to volunteer for a cause you’re passionate about. Make a list of your favorite non-profit organizations and see which ones may have volunteer opportunities. Often when we do good, we feel good!
- Call a friend or loved one once a week
Add a note to your calendar every Sunday (or whatever day you like) to call an old friend or loved one. Once a week, think about who in your life you’d like to catch up with and give them a call out of the blue to say hello! They’ll be delightfully surprised and you’ll both have an opportunity to reconnect.
- Sign up for a class
Classes are not only a great way to meet people that are interested in similar topics, but there is also an element of accountability when you sign up. Once you’ve paid your dues, you won’t want to miss a lesson so you’ll be more likely to actually attend!
- Consider an ElliQ
Digital companionship is also an option! ElliQ is an empathetic care companion designed to help older adults live happy, healthy, independent lives. For a limited time, devices are free for qualified applicants. Click here to learn more and apply!
