Call Your Grandma

Ever find yourself knee-deep in job applications, tackling each task as it comes?

That was me earlier this week. One particular assignment caught my eye – creating a writing sample about implementing a healthy habit. Now, as I brainstormed ideas and poured my thoughts onto the page, it hit me: why keep this gem confined to a job application?

So here I am, bringing you a slice of my job-hunting journey straight to the blog. You see, amidst the hustle of cover letters and resume tweaks, this piece stood out. It's all about the simple yet profound act of calling your grandma – a habit that's been close to my heart for as long as I can remember.

And hey, if it's resonated with hiring managers, I figured it might just strike a chord with my readers too. So, sit back, relax, and enjoy this quick 500-word piece—a blend of wellness blog and love letter to Grammie!

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In 10th grade, I'd find myself waiting outside my twin sister's modern dance class every Wednesday. It was that awkward middle-of-the-week timeframe where it felt too early to tackle homework but too late to engage in mindless scrolling on social media. The repetitive thud of the bass from the studio next door would drive me up the wall, so I did the only thing that came to mind – I FaceTimed my grandma.

Phone calls with Arlene, my 70-year-old Irish-American grandma whose "r's” sound like “ah’s,” and advice with the same no-nonsense kick, quickly became a weekly tradition. What started as a spur-of-the-moment decision blossomed into a regular occurrence. From the carefree ramblings of a 16-year-old to the anxious thoughts of a college freshman and then to the complexities of adulthood, I found solace in our conversations. Now, at 23, I realize that grandmas are a rare gem, and I'm fortunate to have one still around. Whether it's a childhood friend who lives across the country, a college roommate you haven't spoken to in years, or a work colleague who recently changed jobs, a simple phone call can make a world of difference.

But connecting with loved ones goes beyond sentimentality; it significantly impacts our well-being. Research from Mental Health America highlights the benefits of social connection: increased happiness, improved health, and even a longer life expectancy. ​​Michael Kardas, PhD, an assistant professor of management at Oklahoma State University’s Spears School of Business who has studied why people avoid deep conversations, told Zara Abrams of the American Psychological Association; "People’s well-being is determined in large part by the quality of their social relationships, which rely heavily on conversations that they have with each other."

Think about it – the moments when a friend laughs at your joke, a coworker offers congratulations, or a pet shows affection; these are all instances of social connection. Even if our loved ones are far away, technology allows us to bridge that gap effortlessly.

I understand life gets busy, and letting these connections slip through the cracks is easy. But believe me when I say that trying to stay connected is invaluable. My calls have become sporadic since graduating college and entering the workforce (Sorry, Grammie!), but I'm determined to get back on track because I firmly believe in the power of maintaining these relationships.

So, here's my challenge to you: tomorrow, pick up the phone and make that call. You'll be surprised at how much better you'll feel afterward. Remember, a healthy habit isn't just about physical well-being; it's about nurturing our relationships and enriching our lives in the process.