So, a lot of us are becoming more familiar with our homes, whilst others are finding a new norm when it comes to their working day. One thing that has become apparent for everyone, is that being around people is something that is set to change for the foreseeable future at least.

Although social wellbeing may not be something at the forefront of your mind, it is something that we use every day, often without realising.
Every time you buy a coffee, train ticket or get on a bus, you are likely to speak to someone, interact with someone or generally just be around people.
Social wellbeing is an important element of general wellbeing.
It helps us feel supported, helps boost our mental wellbeing and helps us feel connected with the world.

What happens when suddenly we are not allowed to be around others, how do we continue being sociable?

Currently, technology is the number one tool for staying social and there’s some great tools around to do this, like Virtual Netflix - Using a web browser you can link up your Netflix with a friend, watch the same thing together and share a chat box. A cool way to feel like you’re sat watching films with friends. There are also platforms that allow you to play games on screens with friends during video calls, such as Quizzes, Houseparty and other familiar games such as Charades, Scrabble Go etc.. So maybe consider how these could help you to step out of your comfort zone, in the comfort of your home.

And, why not try some of the following:

• Phone a friend

This is something that maybe taken for granted in the modern-day, as most people opt for texting, however, a phone call is a more personal way of connecting with someone.

It allows for the sharing of emotions and releases oxytocin in the brain, a hormone for reducing stress, fear and anxiousness. You can take this one step further and video call on Whattsapp, Facetime for instance (don’t worry about how you look, we’re all casual these days)

• Virtual coffee breaks

Why not take a break from your working day to have a coffee break with a friend or business contact, banning all things work-related?
Using a digital platform may also give you the chance to see each other, adding an even more personal experience.
Taking the time to talk to people around other subjects can help you learn more about others, therefore feeling more connected.

• Virtual quizzes

There are many virtual quizzes you can take part in from the comfort of your home. If you’re a fan of certain popular TV shows such as FRIENDS or Gavin and Stacey you’re bound to find plenty of them on any event site and also across social media. Or you can use platforms like Zoom to create your own between friends.

This is also a great opportunity to meet new people, without having to put yourself out there.

• Virtual hobbies

Have you always wanted to join a book club, take up painting or yoga?
There are many virtual hobbies out there for you to get involved with, whilst connecting with other people in a non-direct way. Perfect for people who may not necessarily like being in new circles.  A great opportunity to try something new.

 

There are many ways for us all to improve our networking and social wellbeing. Here at EnterprisingYou we can support the self-employed and gig economy workers of Greater Manchester to improve their social wellbeing.

We provide fully funded support to the self-employed and gig economy workers across Greater Manchester, including expert Health and Wellbeing support. If you would like to find out more about EnterprisingYou, register online, email info@enterprising-you.co.uk or call 0161 667 6900 to speak to one of our business coaches. 

More information about the EnterprisingYou programme can be found here.