Friendship in the Age of Loneliness: How Coaching Can Foster Human Connection at Work and Beyond

We are lonelier than ever. Two-thirds of Americans are lonely, and friendship is at its lowest rate in 30 years. In the wake of the pandemic and the shift to hybrid work, only 30% of employees feel connected to their teams. It’s clearer than ever that our friendships are vital to our health and happiness. But why can it feel so difficult to keep those bonds alive? Why do we spend so little time with our friends?

In his recent book, Friendship in the Age of Loneliness, workplace belonging speaker Adam “Smiley” Poswolsky proposes a new solution for the mounting pressures of modern life: Focus on your friendships. Smiley will share how leaders and coaches can increase human connection and create more belonging by building supportive communities inside and outside of the workplace. Smiley will share practical habits on how to create meaningful connections, foster team psychological safety, develop a care mindset, and be a Minister for Loneliness in your community. In this inspiring and timely talk, Smiley reminds us that nurturing old and new friendships is a ritual, a necessity, and one of the most worthwhile things we can do in adult life.