On the surface it seems obvious that currently the pandemic is the source of our disconnection, but what really is? What is really driving our disconnection? Here are 3 viewpoints to consider when exploring feelings of chronic disconnection and thoughts on what you can do to address it:

1. Pain Avoidance - Sometimes we can find ourselves isolated to avoid the pain we have experienced in human connection. Consciously and subconsciously protecting ourselves by sidestepping what could potentially lead to more pain. It is important to recognize that by limiting human interaction you could be missing very important life and relational skills and that by sitting with the pain of these encounters, we are actually honoring our feelings and nurturing the superpower of compassion.

2. Socialized Disconnection - When we think about disconnection, it is also necessary to consider the culture that we live in and the role that our biological, physiological and social states, as well as everything that surrounds us has. American culture has become more invested in capitalism and being the best and brightest rather than on the group thriving. Instead, trading community gains for a collective maximizing of individual differences that causes overall detriment to the whole. While in many cases competition can be and is healthy, it can also further drive disconnection and notably people with low levels of social support have a higher, premature death rate. Instead consider the value of the team. Consider the ways in which collaboration can bring about change faster and more sustainably. Allow yourself to play a seemingly smaller more significant role in a bigger picture and watch the feelings of disconnection disappear.

3. Lack of Organization, Structure & Routine - This probably is the last thing you think about when you consider the possibility of disconnection, however I am living proof of the impact of having a lack of organization, structure and routine. A lack of organization, structure and routine are often the source of disconnect in businesses, homes and within ourselves. When theses areas are not in tact, there is often suffering that leads to a deep sense of disconnect. Organization alone can help to increase productivity, enhance communication and reduce stress. In order to have a structure or a healthy routine there must be organization. Structure on the other hand aids in improving clarity and when partnered with routine can be both a source of comfort and security. When combined, organization, structure and routine increases ones ability to cope and where healthy coping is in place, strong connection is sure to follow.

While we know that the pandemic, which is beyond our control, is a sure source of disconnection, I encourage you to consider these other viewpoints and and do what you can to reduce disconnection and increase wellbeing.