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There’s no denying that millennials are more disconnected from each other now more than ever.
Its kind of ironic considering that we walk around with our phones - a device intended to connect us - on us all day, every day.
But there is the problem; connections today are more superficial, less meaningful, and lack depth.
Simply stated, people are severely lacking community.
A lack of community has been noted to lead to the following:
- Feelings of loneliness & isolation
- Lower self esteem
- Depression
- Burnout
- Mortality
In one study, researchers found that prolonged loneliness had more of a negative impact on health than smoking 15 cigarettes a day!
As we become even more connected via social media, why then are people feeling more disconnected now more than ever before?
Our modern lives are designed to be connected to things, not humans, and our experiences are increasingly playing out on screens, not in real life.
If you are feeling lonely, or even just bored - here are several ways to break that cycle and start connecting.
Make Plans with Someone
And actually keep them.
We are so used to not having to commit to people and its becoming norm to ghost people. The lack of real social connections grows each year as people get older.
Make plans, turn off your cell phone, and really be present when someone tells you about their life updates.
Group Travel
Group travel throws people together who all have one thing in common: they signed up for the trip. From there the opportunities to connect and bond over common experiences are endless.
Under30Experiences curates experiences that not only takes people to some of the coolest places on Earth, but curates conversation and connection between travelers on trips.
Find a community
Even if you can’t commit to a trip right now, you can find a community in you local city.
U30X currently has 31 local chapters across the US, Canada, and the Caribbean with monthly meet-ups designed to get you out from your routine, into your local community, and connecting with other cool people.
Sites like meetup.com or eventbrite.com also offer great opportunities to connect with people around common interests.
Join a book club
...or movie club, or even a group fitness class...
If going to a bar to meet people intimidates you, try joining a more social and welcoming environment around a common interest like a book club.
You don’t have to feel nervous about what to talk about since everyone is there to talk about that one common thing.
Book or film groups and even group exercise activities are inviting, interesting, and create opportunities to stimulate your mind (and body!). It's a win-win on so many fronts.
Call you parents, sister/brother, or best friend tonight
No seriously, when was the last time you picked up the phone and called someone? Not just texting someone or responded back with an emoji?
I’m an 80’s baby, and I remember my mom yelling at me to get off the phone because I wouldn't stop gabbing with my best friends. Even without a cell phone, texting, or Facebook, I never felt lonely because my friends were always just a call away.
Try it tonight and see how it feels.
Even if you are introvert or suffer from social anxiety, don’t get scared. Having a community can mean something as simple as connecting with people when you feel comfortable, in a space that you like.
The key is that you have a real connection with someone and find a place where you feel like you belong completely.
U30X is committed to creating inclusive communities through travel and we look forward to seeing you in our community soon!
