Loneliness Epidemic in America
“Did you know America has a loneliness epidemic? “Lacking connection can increase the risk for premature death to levels comparable to smoking fifteen cigarettes a day,” according to a new advisory from the U.S. Surgeon General. This started even before the COVID-19 pandemic, with the rise in technology. Even though people are made to feel more connected than ever, we’ve never been more disconnected. What we really need now more than ever is authentic face-to-face human connection. (excerpt from Dreams Don’t Cost A Thing)
The older you get, the more you realize the importance of friends and community. Do you have friends with whom you have honest conversations? Do you have friends with whom you can lean for support and who can lift you up?
Fostering Community Through Friendships
My friends are individuals who come from all different walks of life; however, God did his thing by bringing us all together. These are people who have been with me through the lowest of lows and the highest of highs. The beauty of developing genuine relationships is the ability to grow together with your friends through the many different seasons of life you will all endure.
You will meet many people in your life who will come and go, but a strong core group of friends is essential. Forming a healthy community allows us to live more prosperous lives and is the cure to the loneliness epidemic we are undergoing.
Diving Deeper Into Community
Jim Rohn said, “You're the average of the five people you spend the most time with.” Choose these people wisely. They can have a huge influence on your future. Build community with people who challenge you to be a better you every day, help you improve on your weaknesses, support you, and hold you and themselves accountable.
When thinking about your friends and community, ask yourself the following:
Do they add value to my life? Do I add value to their life?
How do I feel after hanging out with them?
Do I feel alive around them, or is my spirit disrupted?
Do they align with/support my vision of where I’m headed in life?
Is this a mutual friendship where there is equal give and take?
With all of this in mind, sit with these questions and think about the people you’re closest to. Think about your personal goals for the future. Thank them for being in your life, remind them you are grateful for them, and remember to always lean on your people for support.
While this loneliness epidemic is on the rise, many of us are battling things we may not want to discuss. Understand that you are not alone and will get through any obstacles you may face.
