Disconnected

how important is being 'connected'?

when a person is connected within their community, it has been proven in studies that they're health increases and their general sense of self and purpose increases and people are happier.

doing stuff, however much, lots or little does not mean that a person is connected. it can help if someone is alienated, home and alone, but for others who do too much it does not always mean that they're well connected with people.

sometimes those who do too much they can not really 'be there' with the people they're with. they are thinking about the next thing that is on the to-do list. to connect with others being there with them is a start, but having similar values and beliefs can be a determinant of whether or not the friendship will continue, or cease. a common goal, something that draws people together as they work towards achieving something brings people closer. on the other hand, it may tear people apart if they significantly disagree and can not move past it.

at school, uni, work and other regular places people attend we don't need to make any effort to keep in contact with friends as we see them in class and what-not every day. when these structures in our lives end, effort needs to be made in order to keep in contact with these people, or the friendship comes to an end. however, we do not need to see people every day to be friends with them, but for it to continue some action does need to take place or we run into them at some bizarre place and don't recognise them anymore...

is being connected with someone, and being friends different?

i think so. some friends we don't want to share intimate thoughts and struggles with, and don't share common beliefs or values with, we can get past that. but to connect on a deeper level with people they're involved in our life mission to some extent.