We are social beings which means we innately desire a sense of connectedness with others.  However, there are many challenges that impede these connections including busy lives, inhibitions, and the recent pandemic that forced many of us into isolation.   We are also hard-wired to avoid stressful situations, so often we avoid any opportunity that takes us out of our comfort zones. Therefore, many of us must examine the way we think about ourselves and how we connect with others. In this talk we will explore this phenomenon and consider solutions to these and other social challenges.  Led by Lizzie Linn Casanave who has taught classes on the science of happiness.  Her Ph.D. studies at UMass Lowell focus on well-being and emotional intelligence in the higher ed. classroom. Funded by the Wilmington Family Counseling Service.