The Importance of Relationships for Our Well-Being

Think about a time when you were feeling down and a friend simply listened. Or when you shared a laugh over coffee, reconnected with someone you haven’t spoken to in years, or worked with colleagues in perfect sync. These moments remind us just how vital relationships are to our well-being.

A Harvard Study of Adult Development found that close relationships—more than fame or fortune—are what keep people happy and healthy throughout their lives. Relationships are so essential to thriving that the founder of Positive Psychology, Dr. Martin Seligman, includes them as one of the five pillars of his flourishing model: PERMA (Positive Emotion, Engagement, Relationships, Meaning, and Accomplishment).

From a neuroscience perspective, meaningful social interactions can increase serotonin levels and reduce cortisol, the primary stress hormone. In other words, connecting with others not only feels good emotionally—it supports our physical health, too.

How does this impact you if you’re an introvert like myself? I often intentionally choose solitude for my well-being. But too much of anything—even solitude—can tip into languishing or even a depressed state if we’re not tending to our relationships.

For me, I think of it like a workout regimen. Every day, I try to do something small that builds my “social muscle.” It might be sending a message, having a short chat, or making plans. Over time, I look forward to these moments more.

When I inevitably go through cycles where I retreat, I practice self-compassion. I remind myself that everything is impermanent and reflect on what might have triggered the pullback. Once I understand it, I can begin strengthening my social muscle again. 

It may sound basic—but it’s far from it. Taking care of yourself includes connecting with others in any sphere of life. 

Try being a little more social this week, even if it goes against your natural preference. You – and your new friend – might be very glad you did.