Are you using technology to grow your relationships or are you growing a pattern of self-isolation?

As we continue to stay at home to do our part to fight the Coronavirus and flatten the curve, it is natural to start to feel lonely or socially isolated. Things we took for granted such as seeing family members on weekends, going out to restaurants with friends, going to movies, or enjoying time at a cafe with a loved one are not going to be an option for another few weeks at least. Below are a few ways to keep in touch with your loved ones so that you can use technology to grow your relationships and not get pulled into a pattern of isolation.

Comment below the post if you have other ways to stay connected during this unusual time.

Ways to stay connected –

1. Video Chat with family members. I recommend both Zoom and Skype. I prefer Zoom for groups with 3 or more participants and Skype for one to one chats. Facetime is also great if you are in the Apple Ecosystem.
2. Play an online board game or video game. The video game industry has been trending towards a more isolative style of gaming compared to the past where you had to sit next to your friend to play. If you are mindful of your game selection (future post) then you can make gaming a very social activity even when your friend or loved one is in a different household.
3. Engage in Social Media discussions. Engage with groups on Facebook, the comment section of a favorite influencer on Instagram, directly with interesting people on twitter, on discussion websites like Reddit, or interacting when watching Livestreams. I feel this is a great idea for folks who are more introverted as you can focus discussions around shared hobbies and interests.
4. Check-in with those you care about, particularly those you think maybe more medically vulnerable or socially isolated. A lot of people feel pretty helpless to whats going on in the world right now even though everyone can contribute through social distancing, but if you want to have an impact – start within your social spheres. Check-in on your elderly neighbor, call your isolated Aunt, or text a friend that you know maybe introverted but still would appreciate someone showing they care.
5. Bonus: Don’t forget to check in with yourself: Do a daily check-in with how you are feeling, journal, vlog, or meditate – If you find you drifting to a low place, use this check in to figure out why and make adjustments. You’ll find that if you can connect well to your feelings it will become much easier to connect with others. Staying productive is a way to stave off boredom and depression, but even that should be in moderation – it’s okay to take a break if your feeling overwhelmed.

Hopefully, this is helpful. Some of these recommendations may seem obvious, but I hope you do keep that last tip in mind. Sometimes it hard to remember to work on our relationship with ourselves.