If the past few years have taught us anything, it's that what really sustains us isn’t a 12-step morning routine or a coveted number on the scales — it’s people.

As the New Year rolls in, many of us are tempted to fall into the familiar rhythm of setting self-improvement goals: wake up earlier, exercise more, try going vegan or veggie. Some of them are meant with the best of intentions, but are often unrealistic or even put in place to feel more in control of our lives.

While there’s nothing wrong with striving for personal betterment, these resolutions often focus on individual gain and can leave us feeling isolated or unfulfilled when they don’t pan out.

Calling yourself a failure by the third week of January isn’t the best - or the most chic - way to start your year, but working on deepening human connection is bound to make you feel good. What if 2025 became the year we focused on community? It doesn’t have to be Camp Rock levels of commitment to gathering around a campfire and joining in song with your neighbours. (I mean, it also can!) Either way, there are loads of other channels for getting involved in local groups and building attachments.

In a world where technology often replaces face-to-face interaction, loneliness has quietly reached epidemic proportions. A 2022 report by the World Health Organisation highlighted how social isolation increases the risk of premature death as much as smoking or obesity.

Humans are inherently social creatures, wired to thrive on meaningful relationships. By prioritising personal relationships over self-focused goals, we can enliven not only our own lives but also those around us.

Here are some ideas that might help you create more connection in your life this new year.

Make new friends and be open to rekindling neglected bonds

The "friendship recession" is real, according to the latest data. Studies show adults are making fewer close friends than ever before, and we can’t just blame Covid-19 lockdowns anymore. Whether its due to social fragmentation from social media, the cost of living crisis making it harder to meet up or host people in your rental accommodation or just plain old exhaustion, people aren’t as skilled in creating real-life connections as they perhaps used to be. That can always change, though.

Reach out to an old friend if you’ve lost touch. You’d be surprised how well a text can be received by someone who may also miss your time and energy. Be open to new friendships. Attend events that interest you or say yes to that coffee invite you ignored out of awkwardness or nerves. It’s never too late to meet someone who could become a lifelong friend. Remember that it takes repeated meetups. Instead of 'We should grab that pint' every time you run into them, suggest a time and place.

Join local groups and discover hobbies

Explore classes or groups in your area: a book club, a hiking group, or a creative writing workshop. Shared interests are the perfect icebreaker for forming new connections. There are loads of great examples in Dublin - and they're not just running clubs, no shade intended. Friends of mine have recently reconnected with childhood interests like football, ballet dancing, hockey, pottery and even woodwork. Websites like Meetup or local Instagram groups can help you find activities near you.

Read more: 18 places to learn a new hobby in Dublin

Volunteer or try aiding a cause

Helping others not only builds community but also enhances your own sense of purpose. From food banks to charity shops to soup runs, there’s no shortage of ways to pay more attention to those in marginalised groups.

Organisations like Oxfam Ireland, Age Action, SVP or local community centres are always looking for volunteers. Some places require Garda Vetting and some training.

Engaging in activism is a powerful way to meet like-minded people while working toward a common goal. Whether it’s environmental advocacy, social justice, or community organising; activism can lead to meaningful friendships while creating change. You'll never regret aiding a cause that you feel morally strong about. Besides, everyone renting under 35 should be part of CATU Ireland for tenants’ rights. Social justice isn’t some faraway thing - it’s all around us and more relevant than ever.

Notice the locals you see every day

Your area is brimming with opportunities to meet people. Look for craft fairs, community cleanups, or flea markets with neighbourhood sellers. Or simply spend more time in local cafés or parks, where casual conversations can spark unexpected friendships. It might feel weird, but fighting against awkwardness and your fear of social interaction is honestly an amazing skill to harness - like public speaking.

Find ways to bring people together

Take the initiative to bring people together who may also need some care or be feeling lonely. Small acts can turn acquaintances into friends. A friend of mine has made lifelong bonds through a baking group that makes cakes for those living in Direct Provision centres, for example.

Focusing on community and connection is about more than just staving off loneliness. It’s about rediscovering a longer-lasting form of happiness that comes from shared experiences. As we step into 2025, we can shift our focus from striving for individual perfection to cultivating human connections. Building a strong community and having more great people around you is massively empowering.

Imagine looking back at the end of 2025 and seeing how much your life has grown—not because you ticked off a fitness goal or perfected your LinkedIn profile (as glam as those things are!), but because you surrounded yourself with people you admire and respect. Obviously, there’s always conversations around New Year’s about putting down our phones - and that’s extremely valid - but showing up in person and creating new human connections really does change your life.