The “Let Them Theory” is hot right now … but sometimes it’s better to take a “Don’t Let Them” approach. And sometimes you need to “Let Me.”

Jessica GiffordMarch 31, 2025Comment

113. Scale-up connection: key takeaways from a case study

Want to learn how to connect hundreds—or even thousands—of people on your campus or in your workplace? Check out this case study of Kansas State University’s implementation of ProjectConnect.

relationships, belonging, FacilitatorJessica GiffordMarch 3, 2025facilitator, case study, employeeconnectionComment

112. Choose your path to improving your friendships

Most people believe that it’s important to have good friends. If you’re unsure HOW to improve your friendships check out these 4 paths to better social well-being.

connection, friendship, relationship-buildingJessica GiffordJanuary 6, 2025Comment

111. Set a social well-being goal for 2025

Most people underestimate the impact that relationships have on our health and well-being, and this is reflected in our New Year’s goals. How about making a goal to improve your social health this year?

Jessica GiffordDecember 30, 2024Comment

110. Put words to loneliness … share how it feels

People rarely talk about loneliness because there’s a stigma. But putting words to the experience can help you—and others—feel less alone. This post describes how loneliness FEELS.

mental health, loneliness, relationshipsJessica GiffordNovember 21, 2024loneliness Comments

109. Come together. 3 ideas for gathering with friends.

Time spent with friends is plummeting. Here are 3 ideas for gathering together.

108. Connect during stress

You’ve probably heard of the “fight/flight/freeze” (or FREAK OUT 😆) stress response, but there’s another, more connecting way we respond to stress.

Jessica GiffordNovember 4, 2024Comment

107. Have deeper conversations

If you’re bored by small talk and despise superficial chit-chat, you’ll love this free conversation buffet menu. Get ready to have better conversations.

Jessica GiffordOctober 20, 2024Comment

106. Pay attention to your talking time

If you want people to like you, should you talk more or listen more in conversation? The answer may surprise you!

friendship, communication, connectionJessica GiffordSeptember 2, 2024talking time Comments

105. Will friendbots solve the loneliness crisis?

AI companions are already here, but will they help relieve loneliness, or add fuel to the fire of disconnection?

104. Invest in your relationship with yourself

This blog is all about building positive relationships with other people—but it’s equally important to have a good relationship with yourself. After all, you are who you spend the most time with!

well-being, connection, mental healthJessica GiffordFebruary 13, 2024alone time Comments

103. Invest in friend-time

Who you spend your time with matters to your happiness. Here’s who Americans spend time with and why to invent in more friend time.

Jessica GiffordJanuary 25, 2024Comment

102. Establish a tradition

People think of traditions as something that’s inherited, but you can create your own tradition to help build connection and make memories.

connection, belongingJessica GiffordDecember 14, 2023traditions, family rituals, family traditions, workplace traditionsComment

101. Be Intentional. The antidote to friendship dissatisfaction.

Most Americans are dissatisfied with the quality of their friendships. It's time to shift the idea that friendships happen spontaneously and get intentional.

100. Conduct a Friendship Self-Assessment

The people we’re closest to have a powerful influence on how we feel, what we do, and who we become. Take a few minutes to reflect on your closest relationships using this friendship self-assessment.

99. Break up with a friend. Are you in a friendship that's harmful to your health?

While there are many benefits to friendships, not all are good for you. Sometimes breaking up is the healthiest thing you can do.

98. Let go: Holding a grudge may be harmful to your health.

People who hold onto grudges are more likely to experience severe depression, heart disease, and other health problems. Here’s how to let go…

connection, mental health, well-beingJessica GiffordJuly 17, 2023forgiveness, letting go Comments

97. Be interested. It will draw people to you.

Dale Carnegie said, “To be interesting, be interested.” Good advice, but easier said than done. This post has a few tips.

communication, connectionJessica GiffordJuly 10, 2023be interested, listening skillsComment

96. Be Yourself ... but not always.

You’ve probably been told, “Just be yourself” and the contradictory advice, “Fake it ‘til you make it.” Which is better advice, and under what circumstances?

95. Think small: The magic numbers of friendship

When it comes to friendship, more isn’t always better. In fact there’s a limit to how many friendships we can maintain.

connection, friendship, relationship-buildingJessica GiffordJune 26, 2023small groupsComment

111+ ways to create connection.

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