π± Wellbeing: 2023, the year of more quality human connection & less tech
2022 was turbulent, with many highs and lows. Whilst reflecting, I particularly treasure the joy of human-connection I sought out with intention, experienced and enjoyed
This time last year, at the end of 2021, I remember being so full of relief and hope. The pandemic was ending, we had survived as a family (just!) and 2022 was coming, full of anticipation, promise and new starts.
There were so many potential positives:
Masks were slowing disappearing (very important as Irish ex-pats in Spain, when it comes to communication)
School was back full time and our daughter was happy and having more social interactions
Travel had started again, we were going to spend Christmas in Gran Canaria with my mother - who winterβs there - and were making summer vacation plans
The world was emerging from Covid and there was a loud, global sigh of relief to be heard
But, something did not feel right, my positivity as a person was dented and I felt something was missing.
Well, reader, no wonder you may say, the Pandemic did that to the majority of us. Right? But what was amiss?
After some intentional self-reflection via journaling, and some focused chats with my therapist - I noticed a correlation in my use (over-use!) of technology but also how I stay connected with my network of friends and community.
The conclusion, I needed more non-technology time and more quality in person time. Being part-time nomadic and a regular traveller, how could I bring these changes into my lifestyle?
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For 2022, I tried, when I could, to do the following:
Take regular breaks from all my devices for up to 3 days at a time. I did this 6 or 7 times during the year, asking my partner to be the device-holder for this time, so we could still arrange logistics etc. This worked really well to declutter my mind and enhance my appreciation of nature. I also found my notebook writing, thinking and creativity was enhanced during or after these βnon-tech rest periodsβ. This is something I am taking with me now into my two weeks of holidays
Ask for special quality times with people, in person. I proactively asked family, friends and new acquaintances to meet up began to explain that instant messaging was simply for logistics and convenience, but that the real joy and value for me in our relationship was in person and in the main one-on-one, which although I like socialising in groups, I am more comfortable with just one or two people, for sure.
This is still a work in progress, but there are some clear highlights and signs of progress, where my relationships with people have been reset.
It has also meant some new connections have become valued friends by making this wish clear. A few particular experiences spring front of mind:
Tanja, giving me a personal tour of her βSecret Dalmatiaβ in Croatia, including the stunning Krka Waterfalls (pictured below in October 2022)
Showing Valentina around Zaragoza, via a tapas tour and sharing local secrets
Meeting with Elisa in Lisbon, Portugal to share laughs and superb Italian food
Sharing the joy of going to the Lion King Musical in Madrid, Spain with Lorna and my daughter
Many other special moments, etched in my memory and which bring a smile to my face
All of which may not of happened if I had not conscientiously reached out for connection and community. The benefits of which are numerous!
Look for experiences and connection opportunities, where and when I can This manifested well during my 50th birthday celebrations when I asked any of those invited simply to come and be βpresent with their presenceβ rather than buy any presents. My partner reminded them that after the pandemic all I wanted was real in-person time with them and that resulted (from the guests that insisted!) in some fantastic presents of experiences (like concert tickets and a yoga weekend!) that really made me feel special and loved.
So all in all, I am blessed and grateful for a year full of many in-person hugs, memories and quality time with other real human beings. Whilst, my devices were powered down and stayed tucked up at home, so I could focus on being totally present in the present and enjoy the real world more and with extra intention.
π Thanks for reading and supporting my writing! Have a peaceful holiday period and bright new year for 2023 π
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