Courses

Friendship is a practice and does not happen magically on its own. Decades of research show that the single most important factor for a healthier and happier life is good relationships. A lack of proper social connection shortens life more than physical inactivity or smoking 15 cigarettes a day. Yet in our busy, digital world, the difficulty of sustaining close ties fuels a pervasive loneliness epidemic. This course blends evidence-based findings from psychology and social science with practical, fun exercises to help you create and strengthen friendships. We’ll explore the science and importance of building friendship—mutuality, affection, and vulnerability—within a supportive learning cohort. Each session begins with a brief lecture followed by self-assessments, discussions, and exercises. You’ll set a small weekly goal (such as reconnecting with a lapsed friend or joining a new group), apply it between sessions, and return to reflect and refine. You’ll leave with a personalized connection plan and the skills to grow friendships that make life longer, healthier, and more fulfilling.