Nudged: Call a friend or family member

By Diana Daniele, Guest Nudger

Last month, US Surgeon General Vivek Murthy declared a loneliness epidemic in our country, calling it a public health emergency. Murthy cited a steady decline in social connection and called on Americans to prioritize meaningful relationships. One of his action agenda items was so basic, yet so often overlooked: call instead of texting.

So, this Nudge is simple: Call or—even better—FaceTime a friend or family member. 

What Happened: I was in my bedroom closet, looking for an old photo album, when I ran across a journal I’d kept while living abroad in Spain. As I picked up the colorful Spanish cuaderno (notebook), a photo fell out. It was of me and my very best Spanish girlfriend, Carmen, getting ready to go out dancing at Torero, one of our favorite haunts. Carmen had been such a fierce friend and guiding light for me during my stay in Madrid. In fact, she helped to turn my life from one of crisis and heartbreak to one of ease, enjoyment, and connection.

I did not hesitate, I FaceTimed Carmen right then and there, no planning or scheduling ahead. Even better, she picked up. Laughter and tears ensued as we caught up on each other’s lives, while also recalling our days spent together as students in Madrid. 

The Ah-Hahs: I was absolutely delighted to talk to Carmen, and together we’ve made plans to speak monthly. (And don’t worry about cost, as FaceTime is free!) We also plan to connect our same-age daughters on WhatsApp, so that they might have the opportunity to follow in our international friendship footsteps!