101+ ways to create connection and community.

3 out of 4 Americans report that they are dissatisfied with the quality of their relationships. 2 out of 5 say they don’t feel close with anyone. Even worse, this lack of connection is fueling the current depression pandemic.

Having positive relationships is the number one predictor of happiness and helps prevent and reduce depression. Every act of connection—large and small—matters. When you connect, you protect.

This blog is a growing collection of small action steps—based on research—that you can use to improve the quality of your relationships and create stronger connection in your life and workplace. A new post is released each Monday. I hope you’re inspired to experiment and would love to hear your thoughts, ideas, and experiences in the comments.

If you’d like to receive these posts in your inbox, sign up for our weekly newsletter. Happy connecting!

Posts in inclusion

93. Speak up/Call in: Addressing behaviors that destroy connection

Reaching a state of greater connection not only requires increasing connection-promoting behaviors, but also stopping connection-destroying behaviors.

communication, connection, inclusionJessica GiffordJune 12, 2023speak up, call in Comments

66. The introvert/extrovert interviews

There are a lot of misconceptions of what it means to be introverted or extroverted. Check out the more nuanced reality the introvert/extrovert interviews revealed.

relationships, inclusion, productivityJessica GiffordDecember 5, 2022introvert, extrovertComment

7. Introduce Yourself to Put People at Ease

The small act of introducing yourself—or making introductions for others—communicates friendliness, helps people feel included, and even provides a happiness boost.

communication, relationship-building, inclusionJessica GiffordOctober 4, 2021make introductionsComment