Can Design Solve Loneliness?

It seems that our current lifestyle and approach to work has created an age of loneliness, which has been dubbed an epidemic. Designers are approaching the physical space around us to foster meaningful connections as a way to cure this loneliness. We see it in corporate business, collaborative working spaces, and in common areas. Can design solve this problem of loneliness? Surely human connection is the antidote for this lack of personal connection. Recently on The Mojo Radio Show, I interviewed Jeff Nichols, a world leader in exercise physiology and a former US Navy Seal. He at one time was in the darkest of places but now can see the light. He shared his view on getting beyond the darkness. He said we should ask people, even strangers "how are you doing?" When people say "I'm fine" his reply was "no, really, how are you doing?" He said we must fight to get past the facade and allow people a genuine connection. Design is one thing, but a true human connection is another. Let's look up from our device, lean into the conversation, listen without waiting for our turn to talk, and be truly curious to know...how are you really doing? © GB