Instead of Social Distancing, Let’s Try Some Social Detoxing by MEDI-SHARE/CHLOE VIESINS for Charisma News
Social distancing…what is it?
While helping others, why do we sometimes simultaneously feel an overwhelming sense of loneliness for ourselves? It’s as if we’ve distanced our hearts from loved ones and mentally checked out into this personal bubble of no social interaction.
The word “distance” itself carries a negative connotation. It can feel as though we have withdrawn ourselves completely from our normal day-to-day interactions. For all those extroverts out there, too much time in seclusion can bring on many unsettling and unnerving feelings.
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We love helping others and believe that’s one of the reasons we are chosen as Ambassadors of the Kingdom, to serve God’s children. We look to the Greatest Commandment as our Powering force.
Therefore, here’s my challenge: What if, instead of letting “social distancing” define our current situation, we called it “social detoxing” instead. Just by reframing our mindset and interchanging one word, we’re now presented with opportunity instead of restriction.
Personally, I like to focus on one word in every season of life to help me accomplish my goals and to be the best version of myself that the Lord has called me to be. In this season and for this period of time, that word is “intentionality.” It allows me to focus on where I am, what my situation is and how I can wholeheartedly be present in whatever circumstance I’m in.
“Social detoxing” actually can help us slow down from the franticness of life and be intentional about our relationships, time and resources.
Let’s turn every moment into an opportunity instead of a hindrance! Here are five simple steps to reflect on how we can be more intentional with our time during this social detox:
Schedule times to talk to others. Just because we’re detoxing from social life doesn’t mean we become absent from society. Take this time to be intentional with your words and your actions. This could mean taking 10 minutes out of your day to text a few friends or family members to ask how they’re doing. You could also reach out to a co-worker and send an encouraging text or Scripture. Give yourself time to make a phone call to a distant relative or friend. Schedule a FaceTime date with a loved one to do a devotional or watch a movie together. Learn how to be present in the quiet moments and strengthen the current relationships in your life.
