Why I refuse to Practice Social Distancing

Apart from the fact that as a globe we are using the term ‘social distancing’ as if we have been using it our whole lives (and not just invented it last month), the words selected are indicative of a poorly thought-out label for what we think we need. Remember your sociology courses in college - socialization makes it possible for us to fully function as human beings. Without socialization, we could not have our society and culture. And without social interaction, we could not have socialization.

What we may need is physical distancing, but we absolutely do not need social distancing. In fact, during my recent time facilitating remote training sessions, I have coined the term Social Bonding Experiences (SBE) to reflect the very human need for social interaction. In my classes we introduce opportunities to interact with each other remotely. I use them to introduce new tools using fun activities, but also just for fun. Some of my favorites include a version of ‘Name that tune!,’ class selfies, bring your kids/pets to training day, Storytime via chat (each person takes turn writing a sentence in the chat window) and tell us your professional wrestler name.

It goes without saying that we have suddenly encountered a major shift in the way we operate. It doesn’t matter if it is for work, personal life or how we practice our faith, we all have been impacted. For some it comes as quite a shock, for some a welcome reprieve and for others, economic destruction. Some routines changed dramatically, some not as much. But for all of us, the need for social interaction didn’t change at all. It is part of what makes us human. Take time this week to create social bonding experiences with your friends, family, and co-workers. And please, if you facilitate online sessions, make room for Social Bonding Experiences. You will be glad you did, and so will your students. 

It's been virtual,

-Mike