Addiction advocate Johann Hari has popularized the notion that, “The opposite of addiction is not sobriety.  The opposite of addiction is connection!”  This study seems to be taking that idea one step further in its findings, namely, that healthy connections seem to be a significant part of whether people describe their lives as happy as life goes on.

Yes, I realize that some of you will be scratching your heads, saying “DUH”, and wondering how much money was spent on such a study.  But this does give us another reminder that not only happiness is improved by healthy connections to others, but a whole host of other physical/medical/emotional/mental aspects of well being benefit from healthy connections.

The isolation experienced during the pandemic really brought this into focus for many and re-raised the issue of the importance of connectedness, or if you prefer, attachment.  We are born to be attached.  We thrive in secure and positive attachments.  Conversely, we suffer and are more likely to succumb to dysfunction when our attachments are insecure, unhealthy, or non-existent. 

So, make a point of caring for your connections.  Overcome your fears around giving help to someone or asking for help yourself.   Set appointments to just check in with each other particularly the connections that make you feel the best about you.  The best, most important memories each of us have revolve around who we experienced something with, not how much money we made or things we had.

Thanks for connecting…

https://apple.news/AOuvicrUYTV–iSTPtXqUyg