In our fast-paced, ever-connected world, it’s easy to feel disconnected from the people who matter most. We’ve all been guilty of mindlessly scrolling through socials while ignoring our partner on the sofa next to us, or nodding along to another story from our parents without really listening.
But meaningful connections are key to all successful relationships – whether that’s with family, friends, colleagues or someone you love.
By incorporating simple practices you can deepen your bonds and enrich your relationships. So we’ve pulled together five fun and unexpected ways to connect with your nearest and dearest and start creating lasting memories.
Remember, it’s the small, consistent efforts that often make the biggest difference, like enjoying a road trip together. Model Bianca Beaman escaped to the coast on a girls’ trip in the SANTA FE Hybrid by Hyundai – scroll to the end where she shares her tips for a successful three-generation adventure.
1. Escape For A Shared Adventure
Nothing brings people closer than shared experiences, especially when they take you out of your daily routine. Planning an escape, whether it’s a weekend camping trip, a visit to a new city or a simple day out in nature, can help you bond in new and meaningful ways.
Take a road trip, where the confined space of a car can lead to deep conversations and shared experiences that wouldn’t happen otherwise. Whether it’s singing along to your favourite songs together, having impromptu roadside picnics, or exploring new places, these trips can be a source of lasting memories and form stronger bonds.
2. Indulge In Stories From The Past
Sometimes, the simplest way to build a connection is by asking questions. Engage your parents or grandparents in conversations about their childhoods. Questions like, “Tell me stories about when you were a kid,” can open up a treasure trove of memories. These stories not only provide a glimpse into their past but also create a sense of continuity and shared history, making you feel more connected to your roots.
3. The Intimacy Of Confessions
We’re not saying you should gossip, but there’s something profoundly bonding about sharing secrets – your own, that is!
Encourage a culture of openness within your family and friends by sharing your stories and inviting others to do the same. This practice can start with light-hearted confessions, like your dad telling funny stories about you as a child and gradually move to deeper, more meaningful revelations. Such exchanges build trust and intimacy, forging stronger emotional connections.
4. Unplug Together
Setting aside time to unplug from technology and spend quality time together can significantly strengthen your connections.
Whether it’s a no-phone rule during meals, a tech-free weekend or simply designated hours to engage in meaningful activities without screens, these moments of digital detox can lead to deeper conversations and genuine bonding.
5. Don’t Miss Family Dinners
Despite busy schedules and the hustle of everyday life, family or friends’ dinners should remain a priority. Especially during tough times, like breakups or other personal struggles, maintaining this tradition can provide a sense of stability and support.
Group dinners offer a different dynamic compared to one-on-one interactions, allowing everyone to feel included and supported. They foster a sense of belonging and continuity, keeping the family ties strong across generations.
Making Memories In Motion
Model Bianca Beaman took a girls’ trip to the coast with her mum and daughter, where they bonded, connected and made precious memories as they adventured in the spacious and comfy SANTA FE Hybrid by Hyundai. We asked her for her tips for creating a successful journey – and relationship – with three generations.
marie claire: How do you keep up a loving connection between yourself and your mum, yourself and your daughter, and between your daughter and your mum?
Bianca: “My mum and I are the best of friends. We have no secrets and we speak about five times a day!
“Growing up in a caravan travelling we had such close proximity to each other. She is my soul mate and even though we live if different cities now we still have that same connection.
“Hazel and Pwa Pwa (grandma in Burmese) are very close also. My mum was in the room when Hazel was born and she was the first to see her.
“They love to sew together and mum always tells Hazel about when she was a child and would sew with her Pwa Pwa…”
What makes the Hyundai SANTA FE Hybrid great for a family road trip?
“It was a dream to drive for our road trip. We had an abundance of space, so Hazel and mum could stretch out and relax… smooth driving with the hybrid engine and the infotainment touchscreen was so user friendly and chic.
“Opening the sunroof was such a blast when the sun came out and when mum was tired, she could recline her front passenger seat to have a nap!” Bianca says.
The SANTA FE Hybrid redefines the family car experience through a robust yet refined design, expanded interior space and empowering technology.
The SANTA FE Hybrid has Hyundai’s latest generation of convenience and safety technologies, including a Panoramic Curved Display (dual 12.3″ wide displays), Hyundai Bluelink connected car service and Over-The-Air software updates – which make all the difference when you’re on the road with the family in tow.
With a 1.6 litre turbo-charged hybrid engine, the SANTA FE Hybrid can also take you further with fewer stops, delivering an economical combined fuel efficiency of 5.6L/100km.
What tips can you share for ensuring a successful three-generation road trip runs smoothly?
“To make sure we have a smooth sailing road trip my mum will always pack extra supplies of lollies and chips. Food is a must to keep a six-year-old happy.
“Also, lots of pit stops… looking in cute cafes and homeware shops on the way to our destination.
“Lastly, a killer playlist! Hazel loves to sing along to Tay Tay and my mum is into the Golden Oldies,” Bianca shares.
This article originally appeared on Marie Claire Australia and is republished here with permission.
