October 10, 2024

Breaking Free from Loneliness: Small, Intentional Steps Toward Connection

In today’s world, it often feels easier to pull back and focus only on ourselves. We wake up, go to work, come home, shut the garage door, turn on the TV, and repeat the next day. It may seem like less effort, but does it actually reduce our stress? In reality, this routine can leave us feeling even more anxious, disconnected, and distant from what we really need—relationships. Ironically, we shy away from what could bring us the most peace and joy: human connection.

The numbers don’t lie. Loneliness is being described as an epidemic by health professionals, and it’s having a profound impact on our emotional, mental, and even physical well-being. (You can check out more data in the U.S. Surgeon General’s advisory here and additional statistics here.) If God created us for connection and community, why are so many Christians feeling so isolated?

The answer lies in intentionality. Breaking free from loneliness doesn’t require a complete overhaul of your social life—it starts with small, meaningful steps. You don’t have to be an extrovert or thrive in large groups. Instead, you can adopt a few simple practices that allow you to connect with others in ways that are comfortable and life-giving.

Start Small

If you’re struggling with loneliness, the first step is simply reaching out. This week, challenge yourself to take one intentional step toward connection. It could be as simple as inviting a coworker to lunch, asking a neighbor for coffee, or getting together with a friend for dinner. These small moments of engagement can pull you out of isolation and remind you that meaningful relationships are built over time.

If you’re involved in a group like The Foundry, make sure you show up! Attending your Foundry gathering is another opportunity to connect with others who share your values. Relationships don’t just happen—they grow when you invest in them, even in small ways.

“Know this, my beloved brothers: let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger; for the anger of man does not produce the righteousness of God.” – James 1:19-20

Practice Generous Hospitality

Another way to combat loneliness is by opening your home or heart through hospitality. You don’t need to host a large event; simple gestures like inviting a friend over for a meal or sharing an evening on the porch can go a long way. Offering your time and space to others can foster deeper connections and create an environment where people feel comfortable and valued.

Even within your professional circles, there’s an opportunity to practice hospitality. Invite a Foundry member’s family over for a casual dinner, or take a colleague out to lunch and pick up the tab. Hospitality isn’t about perfection—it’s about showing others that they are welcome and that you’re willing to make space for them in your life.

“Know this, my beloved brothers: let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger; for the anger of man does not produce the righteousness of God.” – Hebrews 13:1-2

Once you’ve taken those steps to engage, it’s important to be present and intentional in your interactions. One of the most powerful ways to deepen relationships is through thoughtful conversation. This goes beyond surface-level small talk. It’s about asking meaningful questions, truly listening, and showing genuine interest in the other person’s experiences.

Be Intentional with Conversations

Take time to plan ahead. Think about a few intentional questions you could ask during your next conversation—whether with your spouse, a friend, or a coworker. What are they struggling with? How can you support them? Listening attentively may be the hardest thing you do, but it’s also one of the most rewarding ways to combat loneliness and build trust in your relationships. (Here’s a great resource to help you develop this skill: The Listening Life.)

Reflection Questions:

If loneliness is something you’ve been feeling, here are a few questions to help you reflect on how to move forward and start reconnecting with the people around you:

  • Have I been living in “head-down, closed-garage-door” mode, shutting out opportunities for connection? If so, how has this shown up in my life?
  • Am I feeling lonely? Where have I missed chances to engage with others, and what small step can I take today to start reconnecting?
  • How could asking deeper questions improve my relationships—with my spouse, kids, coworkers, or friends?
  • What does hospitality look like in my life right now, and how could opening my home or heart help move both me and others away from loneliness?

Breaking free from the epidemic of loneliness starts with intentional, small steps. Whether it’s through showing up for a gathering, offering hospitality, or simply asking someone how they’re really doing, every action makes a difference. We weren’t created to live in isolation—let’s take those first steps together toward connection and community.

  • (Here’s a GREAT resource to develop this vital practice: The Listening Life.)
  • (Click HERE for the US Surgeon General’s advisory. Look HERE for even more statistics)

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Sarah Chartier

COO & Facilitator

Sarahjane Chartier is a Christian Mindset Coach who specializes in helping Christian leaders get clear on WHO they are designed and called to be by God; helping them determine the next best steps so they can accelerate living intentionally and experience peace, joy, and contentment in every season of life. Sarahjane uses her unique background, work experience, education, and her training as a personal development coach to create a positive, future-focused, motivating environment which facilitates and encourages personal and professional growth rooted in the truth found in the Word of God.

“Life motivation comes from the deep longings of your heart. and the passion to see them fulfilled urges you onward- Proverbs 16:26”

Sarahjane is an entrepreneur, franchise retail store owner, wife, mother, and daughter of the Most High God!

Hunter Wylie

Founder & Foundry CEO

Rick Scadden

Rick Scadden is an Executive Pastor with over 10 years of executive and ministry experience. Once a four-time felon, Rick’s journey from a troubled past to full-time pastoral leadership is a testament to the power of redemption and grace. Now, as a passionate leader, teacher, and preacher, he dedicates his life to guiding others on their spiritual journeys and fostering community through faith.

Rick’s leadership extends beyond the pulpit—he brings vision, compassion, and commitment to every aspect of his ministry. His experiences, both challenging and transformative, have shaped his approach to preaching and counseling, emphasizing second chances and the unconditional love of Christ.

Rick is married to his wife, Lacey, and together they have three children: Sadie, Amariah, and Josiah. Outside of his pastoral duties, Rick enjoys spending time outdoors, particularly fly fishing, which allows him to connect with God’s creation in a personal way.

Jenni Rae

Jenni Rae is a Nashville-based speaker and business & performance coach with over two decades of experience helping entrepreneurs and business leaders build multiple 6- and 7-figure ventures. As a top 2% performer in direct sales, she’s renowned for her expertise in unlocking peak performance through psychology, emotional intelligence, and neuroscience. Jenni Rae’s proven methodology empowers owners to elevate their leadership, create magnetic brands, and drive sustainable business growth.
 
With a unique ability to help individuals and teams transform from the inside out, Jenni Rae has guided thousands to amplify their influence, increase sales, and achieve lasting impact without sacrificing what matters most.
 
In 2019 she founded Jenni Rae Co., a coaching company committed to raise up 1000 next-generation business owners who RISE to their next level by leading their business with excellence, integrity, and radical personal ownership, while living faith and family forward.
 
Jenni Rae runs 3-day performance acceleration events and various coaching programs for entrepreneurs, business owners, & coaches to overcome limitations, heal in the hustle, master their Inner Game – so that they can be a stand-out brand and 10x their sales without sacrificing themselves, their health, or their relationships to do it. A devoted mom of four (raising three this side of heaven), her mission is to fuel exponential company growth through transformational business owner development.

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