Five Tips to Increase Socialization this Spring

Increasing socialization, cultivating meaningful relationships and friendships, and limiting isolation or loneliness in an increasingly remote world is a desire – and challenge – for many adults. Individuals living with disabilities sometimes face additional barriers of physical accessibility and social inclusion in their pursuit of a healthy and fulfilling social life. Add to that a naturally quiet or shy disposition, a discomfort in “joining” groups or gatherings, and/or social anxiety, and the goal of spending time with others in the community can feel absolutely daunting for some.

But human beings need connection, and socialization is a key aspect to overall health and happiness that offers a wide variety of health benefits. In addition to improving mental and emotional well-being and creating a sense of belonging, spending time with others has positive impacts on cognitive function, the immune system, and one’s ability to manage and regulate stress.

These tips can help you find easier ways to increase socialization and connection in your life.

Stick with what you know – and love

Meeting new people or joining a group can feel overwhelming or exhausting, especially the aspect of making small talk. Pursuing groups that focus on your own personal hobbies creates a natural shared interest with others and ensures your own level of interest and engagement. Social media makes it easier than ever to find local hobby groups.

If you love to read, join a local book group. Even if you don’t contribute to every discussion, gathering with the group will still provide socialization and time around others. Groups like this that meet on an on-going basis also foster an environment where you can take your time to get to know others and choose when and how you interact over time.

Many solitary activities and hobbies, like gardening, bird watching, photography, arts and crafts, can be converted into social activities at your own pace by joining interest groups. The basis of friendships is often a shared interest, and joining an interest group introduces you to other people in your community who love the same thing that you do.

If joining an in-person group doesn’t fit your life right now, take a baby-step and join a local online group focused on your hobby. Online community groups provide a forum for discussion and connection – and can lead to in-person activities and gatherings.

Take an activity class

Most local community colleges and many small businesses or venues offer community classes on a variety of subjects. Search local events and your community colleges non-credit course catalog for an activity that interests you. Whether that might be cooking, painting, writing poetry, or any of the other wide variety of hobby classes, by choosing a topic that interests you and gathering in a teacher-led, small group environment, classes alleviate some of the individual work of socialization. A smaller group dynamic can also be less intimidating for people who don’t feel comfortable in large group settings. And you can set the pace and level of your participation to match your own comfort level, while still spending time with others pursuing a shared interest.

Check out local events

Attending local events, especially at a place of interest like a park, museum, or historical site, can provide socialization without requiring as much interaction as a small group or class. Many nature centers, community groups, parks, and local venues host free events to bring the community together or promote programs. Whether it is a Bacon Festival downtown, an evening concert in the park, or an outdoor art show – warmer weather brings more opportunities to gather outside while enjoying outings and events at your own pace.

If there is a ticketed event that you are interested in but can’t afford, consider signing up to volunteer!

Increase community involvement by giving back

Volunteering is a wonderful way to connect with others in your community while also building a stronger sense of purpose and belonging. Volunteering your time and talents to a cause that you care about naturally connects you with others who share your passion and interests. Most organizations assign volunteers specific tasks, making it effortless and easy for you to have a role and a place of meaning within a group or at an event.

Many non-profit organizations, advocacy groups, environment groups, faith organizations, and animal shelters are constantly seeking and open to new volunteers. Whether it is volunteering to promote and facilitate a one-time event, joining a monthly park cleanup crew, or committing to a weekly volunteer shift at a local animal shelter, volunteer opportunities offer a wide variety of options to give back in a way that fits your schedule and interest level.

Working with others towards a shared project or cause provides a natural camaraderie. Whether you are outgoing or more of an introvert, having a role and a purpose within a group or organization that you care about helps to create an organic setting for socialization and meaningful action. And when others rely on you, it serves as motivation to get and stay involved. Additionally, volunteering offers its own slew of positive benefits to your overall well-being! When reaching out to an organization, be sure to share your accessibility needs so that they can find a role that best suits you.

There is no “one-size fits all”

Find your own comfort zone when it comes to increasing socialization in your life. While finding that space may require you to step out of your comfort zone a little at first, finding the level and type of interaction that best suits you is a personal assessment. Maybe you join a book club and find that the group gathering isn’t your speed, but you meet a friend in the group that you can grab a coffee or tea with once a month and chat about books one-on-one. Maybe you think you would prefer a behind-the-scenes role at a volunteer event and then find yourself passionate about doing more and reaching out to others to get involved.

There is no one-size fits all when it comes to building the social life and relationships that you desire – so don’t compare your level of socialization to others. Take the time to think about if and where there are unmet needs for interaction and friendship in your life, and then try something new to fill that need. If the first thing you try isn’t the right fit, try something else. A social butterfly might want three to four engagements on their weekly calendar while someone who enjoys quiet solitude more might be happy and content with a monthly outing. A healthy social life looks different to everyone – but we are all worthy of connection and community.