There is something so beautiful about the way connecting with another person can take a weight off that we may not even have noticed we were carrying.

I started thinking about this last Friday when I met up with a girlfriend for a drink after work. Last week was a pretty busy week, not stressful, just a lot going on. Part of me had debated having a quiet night in on Friday and cozy it up on the sofa, reading a book in front of the fire; but something inside me pushed me to call a friend and suggest to go out for a drink.

And as soon as we met up, I felt my shoulders soften and my smile grow brighter and my whole mood lifted. I hadn’t even realized the tension beforehand, but it was amazing how just within a couple minutes of meeting with her I felt lighter.

I think so often we get so caught up in our day-to-day that we forget how important it is to take time out and connect on a social level—just for the fun of it!

My friend and I ended up meeting up with a few other friends and my hubby and we all had dinner together. Lots of laughs and silliness; it was lovely. I was so happy that I listened to that inner voice that pushed me out of a night of pjs and tea and into a spontaneous and fun evening with friends.

Now don’t get me wrong, those quiet nights in are also great. And it’s key we check in and listen to what our needs are in the moment. Depending on what comes up that could be the quiet night in or the meet up with friends. But don’t forget to socialize, especially when things are getting busy. We are social creatures, our mental and physical health are majorly benefited by consistent social connection.

So, here’s your reminder to connect with your friends and loved ones, dear friend, even if that’s just calling them for a quick chat.

How will you be socializing this week? Let me know in the comment box below!

The Happy Edit Episode 3 is out!

This week Sarah and I chat with her husband, Conor. Actually, one of the things that Conor mentions in the episode is how important having a laugh and “craic” (Irish for having a good time!) with friends is for his own happiness. Check out the our whole conversation with Conor and this week’s Happy Edit Tool!

>>Click here to listen to the full episode 3

P.S. Someone asked me if the podcast was on Amazon. YES! You can find the podcast on pretty much any major streaming app you listen to podcasts on including Spotify, Apple, Google, Amazon, Castbox and more.