Humans need connection to other humans. Social isolation is strongly associated with depression and poor physical health. But we need real connections, not just online chat or video meetings.
Neuroscience shows that many more parts of the brain are engaged when you meet someone in real life. Only real-life encounters release oxytocin. On the other hand, video meetings and online messaging show increased cognitive load – you have to work harder to decode social cues. That’s why you can have a productive whole-day in-person workshop but feel exhausted after two one-hour video meetings.
Make an effort to meet people in real life. Online meetings don’t count.