Social Fitness

Social Fitness is the ability to engage in productive personal and professional relationships, positively interact with unit and command networks, and use resources that promote overall well-being. Social fitness is like any other area – the more you practice or exercise it, the stronger your relationships will be.

• Practice communication skills.
• Manage time to set time aside to prioritize important relationships.
• Explain the challenges of military life to members of your family and friends who are not in the military – they may not understand the challenges and stresses you face.
• Find social activities to do together, like hobbies or recreation.

Some social behaviors can have negative effects, like using tobacco, alcohol consumption or gambling. While these activities can sustain relationships and help blow off steam, don’t become over-reliant on these activities for social interaction, as they can be habit-forming and negatively impact other relationships or areas of fitness.

Cultivate positive relationships at work. Treating coworkers with respect and kindness can foster long-term dividends. Strong social fitness can bolster mental, spiritual, physical, and environmental fitness.