Has a colleague recently invited you to lunch, a quick-chat, or a coffee, and you responded with, “I’m too busy”?
I encourage you to reconsider your response in the future. Building and maintaining supportive connections at work isn’t just a luxury; it’s crucial for your well-being. Here are some statistics to back this up.
- The World Health Organization states that people with strong social relationships report higher levels of life satisfaction.
- The American Journal of Psychiatry reports that people with strong social networks are two to three times more likely to bounce back from adversity.
- Research from the American Psychological Association indicates that having supportive relationships can reduce stress levels by 30%.
Cultivating meaningful work relationships shouldn’t feel like just another item on your to-do list. Here are some practical suggestions to help you.
- Set aside time for one-on-one conversations with colleagues.
- Collaborate with colleagues from different teams.
- Attend events, join discussions online, and reach out to people in your field.
- After meeting someone, send a quick message to say you enjoyed the chat.
- Offer to help others by sharing an article, making an introduction, or providing insights.
So, let’s embrace the power of connection!