Socialising Is A Lie
Socialising has always been one of the core tenets of being human. As Aristotle said, we are social animals after all. We thrive in community and aren’t designed to exist in isolation. No matter how much we claim to be comfortable in our loneliness, we cannot live our entire lives entirely on our own. On one hand, we suffer from loneliness; on the other, we struggle with social anxiety. The paradox is both ironic and amusing.
We are often told that socialising is essential for growth. To some extent, I agree — it provides excellent opportunities for networking. But at other times, it becomes nothing more than a gathering for the latest gossip. Corporate socialising, for instance, often revolves around shared complaints, repetitive networking, and endless drinks that sometimes lead to questionable choices. There’s little genuine value added to life in such settings.
By contrast, socialising with a group of close friends — people with whom you don’t mind losing your guard — feels refreshing. It lifts the weight off your shoulders, strengthens bonds with those you truly value, and offers space for honest conversations. There’s real value here: problem-solving, unburdening, and freedom from judgment. In such company, even the drinks go down easier.
In its truest form, socialising is only worthwhile if it brings you closer to people in ways that weren’t possible before. If all it does is fuel corridor gossip, do yourself a favour and skip it. Instead, call that friend, ask how they’re doing, share stories, and spend an hour bantering. That’s a far more meaningful — and profitable — choice.