This is the summary of the book titled “Connectable” written by Steven Van Cohen and Ryan Jenkins and published by McGraw Hill in 2022.  The authors are speakers and consultants with their website lesslonely.com who talk about tech induced loneliness for individuals and teams in the workplace. Isolation’s negative consequences while poignant can be overcome by adjustments to daily behavior and human connection. The impact of loneliness goes beyond the workplace to include society’s foundation and technology with its priority for convenience over connection, has exacerbated it. Kindness is the perfect antidote for loneliness and it can be done in small measures to begin with.

Loneliness is a growing issue in the workforce, affecting employee productivity, loyalty, collaboration, and engagement. Loneliness reduces life expectancy by 15 years, with 70% of workers experiencing loneliness monthly and 55% weekly. Technology, such as ATMs and self-checkouts, often prioritizes convenience over connection, leading to a decline in social interaction. Researchers classify loneliness into three dimensions: intimate, relational, and collective. Intimate loneliness is characterized by the absence of significant support, while relational loneliness is characterized by the absence of friendships and family relationships. Collective loneliness is characterized by the lack of connection to a community or social network, with men playing a slightly larger role. Technology is not inherently evil, but it can be a tool for promoting loneliness and reducing social interaction.

Loneliness significantly impacts people's physical and mental health, increasing the chances of dying young by 45%. Around 60% of American adults report being lonely, up 7% since 2018. Gen Z, the younger generation, suffers the most from loneliness, with nearly 70% feeling significantly stressed about the future. Employers must prioritize psychological wellness and address crippling loneliness. Gen Z prefers face-to-face communication at work, and even brief interactions with others can reduce loneliness and create a greater sense of happiness.

Loneliness has doubled since the 1980s, and COVID-19 has exacerbated this trend. Surveys show that three times as many Americans have no close friends than in 1985. Loneliness spreads through social networks, and loneliness can manifest at work when a lonely colleague becomes more withdrawn and less approachable.

Kindness is the ideal remedy for loneliness, as it is contagious and can make an impression on others. Examples of kindness include Aaron Le Conte's free hugs in London, which have led to glowing smiles from onlookers.

Loneliness is a common issue that has emerged in recent years, with new causes such as being busy, technologically sabotaging, and relying on technology. People today face more distractions than in previous eras, with people rushing to meetings and appointments, sacrificing face-to-face interactions, and relying too much on social media. The rise of Google has also impacted human connections, as people can find helpful and convenient resources online, but it can chip away at human connections. People today are more impatient, prioritizing speedy transactions, which weakens social bonds. The growing remote work phenomenon, fueled by mobile technology and COVID-19, has led to a preference for working at home for a day per week. The no-stopping lane of work has also become more prevalent, with people constantly checking emails and texting at all hours. Leaders can address disconnection by understanding its components and addressing the challenges it presents.

The modern work environment has led to a lack of time for social connections and human interaction, resulting in feelings of loneliness and disconnection among employees. The "Less Loneliness Framework" suggests that leaders can address loneliness by making subtle adjustments that reinforce or reestablish the team's well-being. The framework has four steps: "Look at loneliness," "Invest in connection," "Narrow the focus," and "Kindle the momentum."

Loneliness is a natural part of human nature, and leaders can make adjustments to improve their connection with their team. By slowing down, recognizing signs of loneliness, investing in connection, narrowing the focus, and ensuring shared meaning among team members, leaders can create a more supportive and productive work environment. By implementing these strategies, leaders can help their employees feel better and boost their organization's overall quality.

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