To be happier, have a variety of connections
You've heard me say it many times: our relationships are the single most important factor for our well-being. Now, we have some new data to integrate.
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A recent Harvard study found that it's also important to have variety in our relationships.
In a study of over 50,000 people, interacting with a more varied range of people (like other family members, kids, coworkers, strangers, acquaintances, neighbors, etc.) led to greater well-being. It was even more important than how much you interacted or the quality of those interactions.
This week, challenge yourself to go beyond your normal circle and reach out to one person every day who you normally wouldn't. Whether it's striking up a conversation at your local coffee shop, or calling an old friend, or setting up time with a coworker you haven't connected with, increase the diversity of your social interactions.
Sometimes, it's not possible to expand who you connect with. In those cases, try expanding the way you connect with them. If you always meet a friend for coffee, try a hike instead. If you find yourself stuck in the same-old routine with a loved one, break out of it. Variety brings more joy to our lives
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