11 Tips to Be More Social for Your Own Good

Humans are social creatures by nature, but not everyone likes to be part of huge groups. They enjoy spending time alone after most of the week by watching shows, listening to music or reading books. But social interactions, especially positive ones, are also important. Being social is strongly associated with happiness and life satisfaction for most of us. Your mental health improves if you have positive social interactions. We’ll show you ways to be more social even if you’re an introvert.

Why are some people unsocial?

There are a variety of reasons why some people are not very sociable.

1. An introvert

Some are introverts by nature. They feel more comfortable and energized by spending time alone than by interacting with others, explains psychiatrist and psychotherapist Dr Achal Bhagat.

2. Low self-esteem

There are people with social anxiety or low self-esteem. It can avoid social situations out of fear.

3. Childhood experiences

Bullying can be traumatic for people growing up. Loneliness in childhood also affects sociability later in life.

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Also, certain conditions, such as autism or mood disorders, can make it challenging for people to navigate social cues or communicate effectively. Regardless of the reasons, everyone has different levels of sociability, the expert notes.

Why is being social important to mental health?

Positive social interactions fulfill basic psychological needs for us to thrive.

Here are reasons why social interactions are important:

• Having positive social interactions can help boost mood by releasing endorphins and reducing stress hormones. Laughing and enjoying time spent with others provides mental upliftment.
• Social relationships provide a sense of self-worth and feelings that are critical to good mental health. Dr Bhagat says those who do not have intimate relationships are at higher risk for conditions such as depression and anxiety.
• Friends and loved ones act as emotional support systems by being empathetic listeners and offering advice or perspective during difficult times. This social support builds resilience.
• Being social keeps the mind engaged, delaying cognitive decline, especially important in the aging population.
• The companionship, support, closeness, and joy provided by relationships feed directly into positive emotions and happiness.

Whether it’s a romantic partner, a close friend, a family member or a community group, experts say that most people find the most happiness through positive social contact and bonds.

What are ways to be more social?

Don’t limit your social interactions to your family or childhood friends or lovers. You can also chat with a colleague or neighbor. A 2022 study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences suggests that you’ll be happier if you diversify your portfolio of social interactions. Here are ways to be more social:

1. Join a club or group activity

Pursue a hobby, interest or volunteer activity that allows you to regularly interact with like-minded people in a communal setting. Joining a club or participating in a group activity can give you a sense of belonging.

2. Make conversation with strangers

Practice interacting with people you encounter, such as making small talk with people standing in line. This helps build trust, but don’t give out personal details.

3. Crush the equipment

Minimize screen time and be fully present to focus on face-to-face connections. It shows you’re attentive and interested, says the expert.

4. Ask questions

Don’t just talk and share your own stories. Be curious about others and be an active listener during discussions. It shows attention.

5. Maintain eye contact

Look people in the eyes when talking. It promotes trust and builds rapport. It also shows that you are interested in the topic being discussed.

6. Laugh and be cheerful

Project positivity in your body language. So, it is better to smile as much as you can, but not too much. It attracts others and stimulates conversations.

7. Attend get-togethers

Accept invitations to social gatherings whenever possible. It widens your circle of connections. It could be a school reunion or a night-out with your colleagues.

8. Schedule catch-ups

Meet regularly with acquaintances or friends for meals or recreational activities when you are free. It helps to build relationships.

9. Extend invitations

Besides accepting invitations, take the initiative to invite people to spend time together. It helps to strengthen relationships. You can have a party at home or take your friends to your favorite restaurant.

10. Be helpful

Offer advice, help, favors or emotional support when someone asks for it or needs it. This enables meaningful exchanges with those people, the expert said.

11. Give compliments

Offer sincere praise to others for their qualities, talents, or acts of kindness. People are getting appreciation for this.