It’s that time of year. February 14th is here — and for many, Valentine’s Day is not all that it’s cracked up to be. This is when we can be most susceptible to feeling lonely, and you might be surprised to learn that loneliness is actually bad for your health.
I write about this in The Connector’s Advantage. According to Dr. Robert Waldinger, who directed the world’s longest study of adult life, “Good relationships keep us happier and healthier. Connection matters enormously to your overall health, even to your longevity.”
The research continues to support this theory. In a study of more than 3.4 million participants, Brigham Young University professor Julianne Holt-Lunstad found social isolation and loneliness to have a greater impact on mortality than obesity. It shocked me to learn that lacking social connections carries a health risk similar to smoking up to 15 cigarettes a day. She found people with greater social connections were associated with a 50% lower risk of early death in contrast to people who were lonely.
You’re not imagining it. Companionship is important — connections are important. Being a Connector is good for your health!
“The evidence tying your well-being to your connections is abundant. Research shows strong social connections strengthen your immune system, reduce stress hormones, and increase dopamine, which produces the sensation of pleasure. Connections don’t just feel good—they are good for us.“
| This is not to rub salt into the wounds, it is instead to inspire you that there are many forms of connection. These statistics are not about romantic connection but simply being connected to others. |
Don’t let a commercialized holiday get you down. Get out there and make some connections, build your relationships and improve your health. And you don’t have to do it alone! Preorder The Connector’s Advantage today to learn more about connections and how to make them!
So if you are not in a romantic relationship (or even if you are) use Valentines’ day as an excuse to reach out and connect with someone who may need that connection as much as you do.
I am so glad to include you on my list of connections — and I want to wish you a truly, happy Valentine’s Day. I hope you find just the right relationship to nurture to make this holiday the best it can be!
