Relationships. Sometimes we can’t stand them – but in reality we can’t stand being without them. Relationships are essential in life. For survival – and for thriving. Ever wondered why it is so common for people to feel nervous and tense in social situations? Because deep down in our brains there is an evolutionary truth: we will not survive alone. Being rejected literally meant death tens of thousands of years ago.
So the humans that cared about others’ opinions and whether they were accepted by the herd or not, were the ones who survived and passed on their genes to us. But healthy relationships are not only important for survival – research shows they are also a source of happiness, fulfilment, psychological safety and thriving.