Life Is Too Short To Go It Alone: Making 2025 the Year of Connection
“The lack of social connection is as dangerous as smoking 15 cigarettes a day.”
—U.S. Surgeon General, Dr. Vivek Murthy
Think about that for a moment. In an era where we’re more “connected” than ever through technology, loneliness has become a public health epidemic. Depression rates are at an all-time high, with over 50% of adults in the U.S. reporting feelings of loneliness. Research shows that social isolation increases the risk of heart disease, stroke, and premature death.
The key message from the Harvard Study of Adult Development, one of the longest-running longitudinal studies, is that relationships are the most significant factor in living a good and fulfilling life.
The study reveals that strong, positive relationships contribute to long-term happiness, better physical health, and increased mental well-being. Key findings include:
- Close Relationships Matter: People with strong connections to family, friends, and community are happier, healthier, and live longer than those who are isolated or have few connections.
- Quality Over Quantity: The quality of relationships, not just the number of connections, determines well-being.
- Loneliness is Harmful: Chronic loneliness can have a detrimental impact on both mental and physical health, equivalent to smoking or excessive alcohol consumption.
- Social Connections Protect the Brain: Good relationships contribute to sharper memory and cognitive health as people age.
The overarching conclusion is that nurturing meaningful relationships is essential to creating a life of satisfaction and joy.
So, Why Is This Happening?
Despite living in the most digitally connected era in history, we are lonelier than ever. Here’s why I believe we are facing an epidemic of loneliness.
- Smartphones and Tech Overuse: Instead of bringing us closer, these devices give us a place to hide, keeping us from meaningful face-to-face interactions.
- Remote Work and Learning: The post-pandemic world has normalized working and learning in isolation, reducing opportunities for human connection. The office and classroom used to be key places we connected with others. Now, we work and learn from home more often.
- Decline of Traditional Community Structures: Participation in religious communities, which historically served as hubs for social connection, has declined significantly. Also, fewer people participate in community organizations, clubs, or volunteer activities, reducing opportunities for collective experiences.
These factors have created an epidemic of disconnection. It’s time to push back.
Here’s my challenge to you: As we step into 2025, don’t just set goals for fitness, nutrition, and productivity. Set goals for connection. Make a commitment to rebuild the bridges that strengthen your relationships, enrich your life, and improve your health.
Your 2025 Action Plan for Building Connections
Just as you might set a goal to hit the gym or eat healthier, I challenge you to set goals this year for social connection. Here are a few ideas to get started:
- Reconnect: Reach out to at least three people every month whom you haven’t spoken to in months or years. Call, text, or plan a meet-up.
- Be a Conversation Starter: When you’re in public—at the coffee shop, the gym, or even an elevator—strike up a conversation. A simple “hello” and a smile can lead to unexpected connections.
- Host an Event: Be the one who brings people together. Organize a dinner, a game night, or a community gathering. Bring people together regularly.
- Volunteer: Join a cause that matters to you. You’ll build relationships with like-minded people while giving back.
- Set Technology Boundaries: Put down your phone during meals or social outings. Prioritize real-world interactions over screen time.
Relationships are the cornerstone of a meaningful life. They don’t just happen, they require intention, effort, and time. But the rewards? They’re priceless. Let’s make 2025 the year we reclaim our communities, rebuild our networks, and truly connect.
Because life is too short not to share it with others.
I welcome your thoughts, reflections, and plans on this. I am thinking about this as an area to explore for my next book. What do you think?
Big News: The New and Improved Life Is Too Short Guy Website is Here!
I’m thrilled to announce the launch of the new Life Is Too Short Guy website: www.lifeistooshortguy.com!
This site is a celebration of everything this community stands for. Bookmark it, share it, and join me as we continue to spread the message that life is too short not to make every day the best day ever!
Keynotes and Workshops: Bringing the LITSG Message to You and Those You Care About
In 2025, I’m continuing to deliver Life Is Too Short Guy keynotes and workshops for companies, teams, and conferences across the country. If your group is looking for motivation, positivity, happiness, and gratefulness, I’d love to work with you. Let’s create a dynamic experience that inspires your team to embrace life and thrive. Reach out to discuss.
Remember, life is too short to spend it disconnected or alone. Let’s make 2025 the year we build bridges, nurture relationships, and make every day the best day ever.
Warm regards,
Scott