Feeling disconnected isn't the issue. Look around. The whole province is yet again in another lockdown. We have to stay home and completely ignore all the in-person ways that have helped us stay connected before COVID-19. The world has connected primarily one way ever since we've been alive, and suddenly we're unable to do it. I'd say it's normal to feel disconnected.

The deeper concerning issue is that while experiencing a sense of disconnection, some do nothing about it, and even worse, some believe there's nothing they can do about it. We tend to wait and hope for things to come back to normal.

We can't wait for normal. Right now is the new normal; we live it every day. Staying put and waiting for things to go back only hold us to the past.

Adaptability, resilience and agency are powerful skills. They help us deal with undesirable and debilitating circumstances. They allow us to move forward even when we can't see a path ahead.

Creating additional systems to help people connect more efficiently is a great idea, and we should do it, but we need to go further. We have to help people build their muscles of adaptability, resilience and agency.

Our lives have been significantly impacted in the last year, some more than others. While we can't change the circumstances that prevent us from connecting in person, we can undoubtedly change our mindset and the meaning associated to it all. It's simple but not easy.

Let's work together to support each other during this time. If you notice someone struggling, reach out. Send a letter, an email, a message. Remind people that life comes in seasons, and while the current one has outlasted its welcome, a new season is coming.

Here are a few simple ideas to help rebuild our ability to connect with others:

Video chatting–of course, we can't leave that one out.
Scheduling a reoccurring time slot every week dedicated to connecting with a friend, group of friends or family.
Sending someone you care about a written letter while imagining their face when they open it. Who wouldn't want to receive a personalized letter from a friend by mail? It's so uncommon these days.
Watching a movie as a group. Everyone gets to experience the film simultaneously, even though they are all in different locations. Disney+ has that feature built-in; it's called GroupWatch. Teleparty comes as a Chrome Browser extension and does similar for Netflix.
Going for a refreshing walk in nature if possible.

What haven't you done in a while that could help you rebuild your ability to feel connected and help someone else in the process?

Writing this blog every week allows me to connect with what I want others to experience. It's one way I feel connected. Perhaps having a blog should also be on the list?

What action within your control makes you feel connected? I'd love to hear.

Leave a comment

Miguel,
Sparknotion – Think Differently.

Sunday Spark

Rebuilding a sense of connection