Your Wellbeing Depends on Your People: Why Social Connections Matter More Than You Think
Leadership can be lonely. You’re the go-to problem solver, the decision maker, the “let’s circle back on that” guru. But if you’re not careful, you’ll look up from your endless to-do list and realize you’ve become an island. And while islands might look cool on a postcard, they aren’t great places to thrive.
The fact of the matter is: we all need people. Not just for networking or career growth (though, yes, that too), but for your own mental, emotional, and even physical health. And before you roll your eyes and say, “I don’t have time for this,” hear me out—because investing in social connections isn’t just good for your soul, it makes you a better, sharper, more effective leader.
Why Social Connections Matter (even for the introverts)
You as a Person (a.k.a. Your Brain and Body Will Thank You)
Educators know that students are more likely to succeed when they have a supportive peer group. We work hard on our campuses to create easy opportunities for students to find “their people,” but as administrators, we can get so focused on creating a wonderful campus life we let our own peer group ties get, well, untied. Want to role model something for your students that will impact their lifetime? Show them that healthy adults prioritize human connection in their personal lives!
Humans are wired for connection. We literally function better when we have strong social ties. Here’s why:
- Reduces stress – Talking through challenges with someone who gets it? Instant tension release.
- Improves mood – Ever had a terrible day until you had a good laugh with a friend? Exactly.
- Lowers risk of depression – Isolation is where negativity breeds. Strong connections = built-in cheerleaders.
- Enhances self-esteem – Knowing people actually like having you around is a major confidence booster.
- Better physical health – Science says people with strong social networks live longer. So, friendships = longevity hack.
- Emotional support during hard times – Because even Leader-Bosses need someone to text when they’re having one of those days.
You as a Good Employee (And an Even Better Leader-Boss)
Great leaders often have a dash of panache. Your ability to connect with others impacts everything from team morale to department productivity. We don’t need our BFF to only be our campus people, but it’s important for our work people to matter to us, and vice versa.
- Reduces social anxiety – The more you engage with people, the less weird it feels.
- Less absenteeism – When people like their workplace, they actually show up, and they bring their A-game.
- Higher self-esteem – Having solid relationships at work = feeling more competent and motivated. And y’all, that energy is contagious.
Last little nugget: y’all know I love my furry pal more than a whole lotta folks, but our animal companions are no substitute for interactions with actual humans. My pup provides a ton of emotional care, but he knows I need my friends and human family too.
Bottom line? Your ability to build and maintain relationships isn’t just good for you—it’s good for your team, your campus, and your long-term success.
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