With experience as a principal, Steve Betando is an educational administrator in Northern California who most recently served as superintendent of the Morgan Hill Unified School District. One focus for Steve Betando is helping others achieve life balance in areas that range from physical health to social wellness.
The latter concept refers to the critical close relationships people have with others which has become increasingly sparse since the dawn of the digital age. More challenges to the human connection occurred when the pandemic caused further separation and isolative experiences. Many people struggled with forced distancing experience while heavily desired the physical presence of others. Whether physical isolation is voluntary or forced, there are other ways to support mental wellness by keeping social connected to others through a nurturing communication link with friends, family, old acquaintances, and coworkers.
Physical proximity certainly has a positive influence not quite found by another means of connection. However, it is important to take advantage of old and new technology when it is not possible to by physically together. Staying connected with others does not require close or lengthy physical proximity. A simple phone call, text, or email can help reestablish a sense of continuity with others. Try to integrate “10-second relationships” into the day as well. This involves simple greetings and conversations with neighbors, service workers, and others who share part of daily life's path.
For many, reaching out to others is not necessarily comfortable. For more reserved people, being the first to reach out to others must be an acquired skill before it become a natural part of their daily experience. The connection focus on improving communication skills and interacting with others in ways that carry minimal expectations and ulterior motives.
Proven effects of prosocial behavior include a raise in self-esteem, a stronger sense of purpose, and the frequency of "paying the positive connection forward," to others. Such brief interactions of human connectivity have profound positive influence on each individual involved in the interaction. A study providing a Theoretical Perspective on Thriving Through Relationships, (Feeney and Collins, 2014) found that receiving prosocial acts are associated with fewer depressive symptoms and greater belongingness.
Multiple studies find that the human connection also decreases other health risks and improves physical well-being and longevity. Researchers have found that strong social connections also strengthen the immune system. Over time, infusing prosocial behaviors in your day’s routine will likely increase your chances of a longer life by as much as 50%. Moreover, enhancing the human connection in your and other lives will make each day on earth more healthy, positive, and meaningful.
