Do you ever feel like you just…forgot how to socialize? Blame it on the pandemic or the internet or the loneliness epidemic—whatever the cause, a whole lot of us are feeling it. We’re desperately craving more and deeper connections while also dreading the idea of putting ourselves out there. 

Solutions to this solitude problem are popping up everywhere: dinners with strangers that are organized by an algorithm, conversation card decks to help you pivot from small talk to medium talk, creative new third spaces that let you hang with friends without just eating and drinking. 

At this point, we all know the importance of connection and why we should prioritize it—even (and maybe especially) when we’re overwhelmed. But that doesn’t make it any less intimidating or anxiety-inducing.

So, consider this your panic-free guide to creating and maintaining more connections this year. Here’s to finding your people, silencing your inner critic, and building a social life that feels like self-care.