(Psychology) The power of connection goes beyond the benefits of networking, it is the creativity of collaboration and the comfort of company – a vital element in living well. However we identify ourselves, as extroverted or introverted, gregarious or a quiet soul, we are social creatures and we benefit from the stimulation and support of people we trust around us.

In the field of positive psychology social relationships are deemed to be the most important factor in predicting wellbeing. Attachment theory, rooted in the bond between an infant and their care giver, extends well beyond childhood. If we have a dysfunctional attachment style we may fear that all is lost, yet this can be modified. We can learn to have secure and loving relationships with others, to trust and be trusted.

Sharing time with those we care about can allow us to reveal our vulnerabilities and build a real sense of connection. We may fear schadenfreude, social media abounds with examples of people apparently rejoicing in others’ misfortune, yet there is also strong evidence of the lesser known mitfreude – the pleasure we feel when others are happy or succeed.

So if you feel you suck at sociability, give yourself a break. Give it a try and remember that listening is the most underrated and powerful of communication methods. Start your next encounter with inquiry and interest. And if you are interested in a person, this might be the start of a wonderful connection. If this is not the case, there is still a multitude of other people to connect with.

We are often much harder on ourselves than others and our insecurities and worries are often seen positively, a phenomenon known as the beautiful mess. Close connection offers us emotional support that can help us destress and improve our mental wellbeing. Connection helps us emotionally, physically, mentally – it can bring us joy, not just the release of the bonding hormone oxytocin, but a true sense of trust and shared reality. We can all benefit from connection.