The new Positive Connections program from MHealthy is available through December 1. It's a fun way to learn effective strategies to enhance interpersonal relationships. Why are social connections important? 

"A 2018 poll found only 9% of Americans prioritized their social life over fitness, work, hobbies, and sleep. However, research shows strong social connections can help achieve these other goals," says Amie Gordon, Assistant Professor, U-M Department of Psychology. "We have an innate need to feel a sense of belonging. Cultivating high-quality relationships with people in our lives—those we celebrate with or seek help from—matters for our health and well-being, even predicting longevity."

High-Quality Connections are Key 

During the program, you'll explore effective, research-supported strategies such as gratitude, strength spotting, and acts of kindness to cultivate positive micro-moments. These techniques support "high-quality connections" which foster joy and strengthen your relationships.

"The key to building high-quality connections is to be mindful that everyday practices can make a large difference in creating interactions that build strength and capabilities for the people and groups involved," says Jane Dutton, Co-Founder of the Center for Positive Organizations and the Robert L. Kahn Distinguished University Emerita Professor of Business Administration and Psychology. These five strategies for building connections are some of the most potent and easiest to incorporate in how we behave at work and in our lives more generally. If one takes an experimental mindset and adopts small wins with engaging these strategies, you will likely be surprised and delighted by the difference they can make." 

Researchers at the University of Michigan have been at the forefront of studying the impact of high-quality connections. "Our research shows that interacting with others in ways that foster high-quality connections at work does more than improve morale. High-quality connections contribute to improved health, greater creativity, resilience, engagement, and trust," shares Dutton. "Organizations that learn how to foster these connections bring out the best in their employees and teams, achieving better results."

It’s Easy to Start Making Positive Connections

1. Sign up on the MHealthy Portal.
2. Make a List of Connections: Choose a minimum of six (and up to ten) people you want to connect with, whether they are friends, family, colleagues, or even a barista at your favorite coffee shop.
3. Plan One Activity with Each Person: Engage in various activities with your connections, such as sharing a meal, getting coffee or tea together, or meeting up for a nice talk.
4. Connect and Reflect: After completing each activity, reflect on your experience and write a brief note on the MHealthy Portal.

The Positive Connections program will run for six weeks, from Oct. 21 to Dec. 1. This program is available to all active, benefits-eligible employees (excluding those only eligible for the U-M GradCare health plan) and their spouse/other qualified adult (enrolled in a U-M health plan). Employees are encouraged to sign up early to start experiencing the benefits of enhanced social connections.

Sign Up for Positive Connections Now, Give Thanks for Stronger Relationships Later

You can access the Positive Connections program before December 1. Happy connecting!