The heart of human flourishing

Inspired by insights from The Global Flourishing Study 

In a world increasingly dominated by digital interactions, global mobility, and rapid change, one timeless truth continues to emerge from the latest research into human wellbeing: we flourish best when we are connected. 

Drawing on findings from The Global Flourishing Study — the largest longitudinal investigation into what enables people to thrive — this article explores why meaningful human connection sits at the core of human flourishing, and what this means for individuals, communities, and organisations seeking to build lives of purpose, resilience, and wellbeing. 

What is human flourishing? 

Flourishing is more than happiness or momentary pleasure. According to The Global Flourishing Study, it refers to a state in which all aspects of a person’s life are good — including physical and mental health, purpose, character, close social relationships, and financial stability. It is a holistic view of human wellbeing that cuts across cultures, disciplines, and belief systems. 

This expansive definition recognises that flourishing is not merely an individual pursuit. It is deeply relational. We are not designed to flourish in isolation. 

The central role of connection 

Across continents and cultures, one consistent pattern in the data is clear: those who report strong, trusting, and positive relationships are significantly more likely to flourish across all dimensions of life. Whether with family, friends, colleagues, neighbours, or broader communities, connection provides the emotional scaffolding that sustains wellbeing over time. 

In fact, The Global Flourishing Study found that close social relationships were one of the most powerful predictors of flourishing, even above income or education. It turns out that the quality of our relationships not only buffers stress and supports mental health, but actively shapes our sense of meaning, security, and identity. 

Why connection matters more than ever 

In a post-pandemic world where loneliness is rising and trust in institutions is under strain, these findings carry renewed urgency. Despite being more "connected" than ever through technology, many people report a growing sense of disconnection — from each other, from community, and even from themselves. 

The study reminds us that real connection — marked by empathy, presence, reciprocity, and vulnerability — cannot be replaced by transactional or performative interaction. Flourishing is not a solo sport; it is inherently social. 

Implications for organisations and society 

For employers, educators, policymakers, and communities, this research offers both a challenge and an invitation. Initiatives aimed at improving wellbeing must prioritise relationship-building at every level. This could include: 

• Creating psychologically safe workplaces where people feel seen and heard 

• Investing in community spaces and local initiatives that build belonging 

• Promoting intergenerational dialogue and mentoring 

• Encouraging daily acts of kindness and mutual support 

• Designing digital spaces that enhance rather than erode social trust 

Such efforts are not "soft" extras. They are the foundations upon which all other forms of flourishing rest. 

Towards a culture of flourishing 

Ultimately, The Global Flourishing Study affirms something both ancient and future-facing: we are wired for connection. Our ability to love, be loved, collaborate, forgive, and build trust is not merely a feature of flourishing — it is its beating heart. 

As we seek to reimagine wellbeing in the 21st century, let us remember that every conversation, every shared moment, and every act of compassion is a building block in the architecture of a flourishing life. 

Flourishing begins not in the grand or the distant, but in the presence of one another. Let us make connection our cultural currency.

ELLIE MASON is an EQ practitioner and leadership development collaborator. Being immersed in organisational development, leadership development, and influencing change for over 15 years, Ellie is fascinated with the human experience. In fact, her ‘Roman Empire’ is thinking about how easily we walk through life without being truly conscious of why we do what we do. With distraction and busy-ness culture in full swing, Ellie believes – now more than ever – we need to pause and reflect on what we think, feel, say, and do. Then to be intentional about how we’re showing up in the world and for those around us. In a nutshell, Ellie supports leaders and teams to build cognitive capacity, unlock capability, and unleash their potential.