We all need community, but it can be hard to find the time or energy for relationships when we’re too busy. For example, you might spend your day working as a single mom juggling work and home responsibilities, so it may seem impossible to find time to hang out! Maybe it just seems easier to stay home and watch a show on the couch. But building connections is vital to our well-being.
Prioritizing relationships is essential for all of us, and these relationships can make a significant impact on our lives and our kids’ lives. Making time for relationships may seem complicated and finding the time or energy for relationships can be challenging. But there are other ways of building connections. You may have to get creative in how you connect for certain seasons.
Here are a few ideas I have tried.
Make time each day: There are many opportunities with others throughout the day. Even if it’s just 30 minutes, try to schedule time each day to spend with friends or family. This could be going for a walk, catching up on the phone, or meeting for coffee. If staying connected isn’t an option because of family/work commitments, try scheduling regular check-ins with close friends or picking up the phone instead of texting. And don’t forget-Zoom, FaceTime, Facebook Groups, and similar apps make it possible to connect.
Get involved in activities you love: Doing things you love with other people is a great way to build relationships. Join a sports team, book club, cooking class, or other activity that brings you joy. One of my favorite ways to find community is through the local church. I love the local church. We are in a unique time where pastors and church staff work very hard to engage their communities. I have seen several creative examples, and once you do a little research in your community, I am sure you will find a few.
Serve others: Volunteering your time and talents is a great way to meet new people and make a difference in your community. Find an organization that aligns with your values and get involved. There are many ways to get involved in your community and make it a better place. Join a club or organization and reach out and invite someone to join or serve with you!
Remember that relationships are an important part of a happy and healthy life no matter what you do! These relationships help us stay mentally healthy and allow us to be the best version of ourselves. By taking small steps each day, over time, we can look back and see that our efforts were truly worth it! These three ideas are just a start. But you have to start! Friendships like these remind us of who God says we are.
Let me know in the comments below what you do to build relationships that matter! Your example may inspire someone else to give it a try! And you would be helping another along the way!