When the doorbell rings, answer it

Today, we will focus on the Social Domain — your inner doorbell.

The Social Domain is all relationships, interactions and connections with others. We are social beings, and our interpersonal lives matter to our well-being. Improving your Social Domain can improve your mental and physical health. Studies link reduced loneliness with lower rates of depression and anxiety.

One well-known study at Brigham Young University found that a lack of social connections can be as harmful as smoking 15 cigarettes a day. However, clinical evidence shows that social connectedness can improve longevity and reduce cognitive decline. There are many parts to the Social Domain. This article will focus on family, community engagement, and social skills.

Family makes up part of my Social Domain by giving me a sense of purpose and connection. Over my lifetime, I have developed an important relationship with my aunt.

At 93, she continues to teach me valuable life lessons such as how to be present and how to practice empathy. Getting to know her through her joys and challenges has given me new insight into the value of family.

While not everyone may have strong ties with their biological family, family can take many forms. Cultivating a chosen family by building connections with close friends can foster your Social Domain.

Community engagement offers countless opportunities like volunteering and networking are part of the Social Domain. Service clubs like Rotary or Lions are effective ways to build your social network. Helping others is a wonderful way to expand your Social Domain, and there are several good opportunities locally such as community dinners and food shelves.

Getting started in my first job, I joined a Daybreak Kiwanis Club. It proved to be a learning experience that helped me get to know the community. I learned to be comfortable in front of a group and made friends that helped me understand community service and the value of personal relationships.

Support groups based on shared interests or needs provide a significant social outlet for many. For example, a support group for caregivers can ease feelings of isolation by connecting with others facing similar challenges and offering emotional support.

Our relationships are foundational to our social skills and become who we are, our story and our culture. They provide models for behavior. We learn how to communicate through storytelling and shared experiences. One of my favorite stories to hear from others is about how they got to where they are in the moment: their challenges, trials and triumphs. It has a basic communication skill, listening, empathy and sharing how they deal with conflict. Answer the doorbell and engage with others. Their stories insight into how relationships with others can help us overcome challenges and achieve our goals.

We often find reasons not to answer the doorbell when it rings. The laundry, a nap or the Vikings game can keep us from doing what really needs to be done. Answer your doorbell — your Social Domain.

If you want to read more, consider “Social Intelligence: The New Science of Human Relationships” by Daniel Goleman. Goleman explores how social interactions shape our minds through the building of relationships.

Next time we will explore the Spiritual Domain. Till then, answer the doorbell.

David Berg — Healthcare Executive