https://www.pittsburghmagazine.com/did-you-see-what-they-posted-on-nextdoor
When some of my contributors, Jen Antkowiak, Deborah Barr, Bonnie Budzowski, Paula Franetti, Gina Mazza and Janet McKee wrote sections with me for a project on The Top Ten Tips for Lasting Happiness, we focused on the types of happiness that are unlikely to change over time. Jen’s chapter was related to the #1 reason for happiness reported by the most people: social connections. It was then and is now on the top of the list. The other key elements in the top ten list were food, exercise, how friends can cause happiness, and laughter. Additional elements included gratitude and flow.
Happiness was and continues to be the subject of a great deal of study. When Kellie Gormley interviewed me recently for Pittsburgh Magazine she wanted to know about the pros and cons of a new social network site called NextDoor. It’s an online site where you can sign up to connect to people in your geographical area to talk about area news. It’s no surprise that this type of program was developed because we are still looking for positive and supportive ways to connect to people with whom we have something in common. In addition, it’s practical because you can find local contractors, pet sitters, snow shovelers, Chinese food delivery and lost pets!
NextDoor is like a neighborhood Facebook with a grassroots element that brings people together. It can’t take the place of human interaction, but during COVID it was a lifeline for people. As with most human connections, whether they are in person or on social media, there are supportive ways to use the site as well as ways to blow off steam. At times the pandemic caused anger and frustration and they were sometimes expressed in ways that resulted in their posts being taken down. The site is monitored to keep a supportive community of local people together and to keep everyone safe.
What I noticed the most on NextDoor was universal to what I saw on Yelp reviews, social networking, Better Business Bureau reviews on local businesses and experiences with local restaurants. The most important factor in the review was the way they were treated, before even addressing the product or service. In some cases, the service was not even mentioned because the customer was raving about the kindness and consideration they were given.
And it’s worth the effort. Research shows that those with social connections are healthier and live longer. The happiness and support that these connections bring has benefits that reach further than just having fun or having someone to confide in. There is a positive biological change in those who are socially connected. When two people are together and their vital signs are measured in a laboratory, there are measurable changes in immune function, cardiovascular levels, sleep rhythms and hormone levels. So, consider who you give your energy to if time with them leaves you feeling depleted.
But do one thing today to connect to someone and show them some kindness and support. Or consider doing something daily to show support through the OneEmail Campaign. The benefit will have a ripple effect that will make not only your friend happier, but everyone around them.
For more information about how this works, check out:
What if the next email you send could change your life?
https://drnancyonline.com/one-email/
What is the butterfly effect and how does it work? How being kind to one person affects everyone they know.
https://drnancyonline.com/what-is-the-butterfly-effect-and-how-does-it-work/
And since Covid is not yet over here are 19 tips for selfcare and care of others:
Be Happy Now
https://drnancyonline.com/ways-to-be-happy-now/