Social Skills and Positive Wellbeing: The Connection You Need to Know

When we think of wellbeing, we often think of things like exercise, diet, and sleep.

However, there is another crucial element to wellbeing that often gets overlooked: social skills. In fact, research shows that strong social skills are linked to positive wellbeing. Here’s why:

1. Social skills help us build relationships. Humans are social creatures, and building positive relationships is a crucial part of our wellbeing. Strong social skills allow us to communicate effectively, resolve conflicts, and build trust. When we have positive relationships in our lives, we experience increased happiness, lower stress levels, and a greater sense of fulfilment.
2. Social skills boost our confidence. When we have strong social skills, we feel more confident in social situations. We are better able to express ourselves, make small talk, and connect with others. This confidence spills over into other areas of our lives, giving us the courage to take on new challenges and pursue our goals.
3. Social skills improve our mental health. Loneliness and social isolation can have serious negative effects on our mental health. By contrast, having strong social skills allows us to form positive relationships and feel connected to others. Studies have shown that people with strong social support networks are less likely to experience depression and anxiety. Additionally, social skills training has been shown to be an effective treatment for social anxiety disorder.
4. Social skills help us navigate the complexities of modern life. In today’s world, we are constantly bombarded with information and faced with complex social situations. Strong social skills allow us to navigate these complexities with ease. Whether we’re networking at a professional event or making small talk at a party, social skills help us connect with others and form meaningful relationships.
5. Social skills are essential for success in the workplace. In many industries, social skills are just as important as technical skills. Being able to communicate effectively, work well in a team, and build positive relationships with colleagues and clients can make all the difference in achieving success in the workplace. By developing strong social skills, we increase our chances of career advancement and job satisfaction.

So, how can we improve our social skills and reap the benefits of positive wellbeing?

Here are some tips:

1. Practice active listening: When you’re having a conversation with someone, focus on really listening to what they’re saying rather than just waiting for your turn to speak. This shows that you value and respect their opinion.
2. Take social risks: Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and try new social situations. This is a great way to build confidence and improve your social skills. 
3. Learn to read social cues: Pay attention to body language, tone of voice, and other nonverbal cues to better understand what people are really saying.
4. Seek out social support: Surround yourself with positive, supportive people who encourage and uplift you.

By developing strong social skills, we not only improve our personal relationships and career prospects, but we also boost our overall wellbeing. So, take the time to invest in your social skills and reap the rewards of a happier, healthier life.

To find out about the social skills support we offer at The Social Domain enquire below.