Building positive relations with people within our circles create a sense of happiness, fulfillment and support. Getting along well with people create connections which are key to building social capital. Social capital can be defined as social networks built through relations among people sharing norms, values, identity and common understanding. In this context, social capital is narrowed to focus on ‘how well you know people and how they know you socially.’ That is achieved through interpersonal relationships and reciprocity.
“You are the sum total of the people you meet and interact with in the world. Whether it’s your family, peers, or co-workers, the opportinities you have and the things that you learn all come through doors that other people open for you” -Tanner Colby
Social capital, however, can’t be built overnight. It is developed through maintaining relationships that form social networks. To build strong networks, you need to get some acts right. It would work well if the people in your social networks make you feel of value and at ease. Be someone who people wanna talk to and be genuinely interested in other people, for a good course though. Things happen. Social capital can get you sailing through and open different doors that you never imagined of. For instance you can get jobs, promotions, even spiritual nourishment and learn new things from these networks. Your social capital can be an ingredient of success.
It would be mean if you only remember and value people when you are reaping from them. Such a behavior can ruin your social capital. Cultivate your social capital by doing simple things like; checking on people in your circle from time to time, creating friends wherever you go, keeping boundaries in your relationships and being open to learn as you grow in life. Being able to keep our existing circles alive helps us relate better with the new friends we meet. A simple way to keep our primary relationships on toe include; sending a simple hello message, making simple calls, commenting something positive on their timelines, birthday wishes and congratulating them on achievements like graduations, weddings etc.
Everyday we meet different people and remembering them all is quite a task. However, it would be wise taking note of those who share with you about anything that impacts your life. Take their contacts or address for keeps. These people could be your career guides tomorrow, or something better in your life. Also, be willing to share knowledge with others for in sharing we learn more about others and ourselves. Make people feel important, learn to appreciate them and recognizing the difference that exist between you and them. By so doing, you get an incredible experience in this world. Treat people as you would like to be treated. It is a two way thing. As you build your social capital, have in mind that your networks impact your social net-worth.
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