The Problem: The Digital Age is Making Us Lonely
In our hyper-connected world, loneliness is paradoxically one of the biggest problems we face. Many entrepreneurs work remotely, spending hours behind a screen, engaging with clients, customers, and colleagues through emails and Zoom calls—but rarely face-to-face.
Without meaningful social connections, stress levels rise, anxiety creeps in, and motivation drops.
If you’ve ever felt sluggish, unmotivated, or even a little depressed after days (or weeks) of grinding away at your business alone, your oxytocin levels might be running low.
What is Oxytocin and Why Does It Matter?
Oxytocin is often called the love hormone, the bonding hormone, or (incorrectly) the cuddle chemical. While it does play a role in bonding and trust, its effects are far more complex than just feeling warm and fuzzy after a hug.
- It’s both a neurotransmitter (influencing mood and brain activity) and a hormone (regulating bodily functions).
- It was first identified in childbirth and breastfeeding, helping mothers bond with their babies.
- It strengthens trust and loyalty within social groups—but can also increase mistrust toward outsiders.
- It helps regulate stress and anxiety, acting as a counterbalance to cortisol, the stress hormone.
For digital entrepreneurs, the issue is clear: without regular, real-world social interactions, oxytocin levels drop, leading to increased stress, lower motivation, and even social anxiety.
The Science of Social Isolation and Oxytocin Deficiency
Low oxytocin levels aren’t just about feeling lonely.
They impact your ability to trust, connect, and even feel motivated. Here’s what happens when oxytocin is lacking:
✅ Increased stress & anxiety – Without oxytocin to counterbalance cortisol, stress takes over. Ever feel overwhelmed just looking at your inbox? That’s part of it.
✅ Struggles with trust & collaboration – Low oxytocin can make you more guarded and hesitant to trust others, whether it’s a business partner, a new hire, or even a friend.
✅ Lack of motivation & burnout – Our brains are wired for social reward systems. Without regular interactions, motivation plummets, and the work-from-home grind starts feeling unbearable.
✅ Depression & disconnection – Without oxytocin-fueled social interactions, loneliness sets in, leading to a drop in mood, creativity, and even productivity.
The Solution: Easy Ways to Boost Oxytocin (No, You Don’t Need to Hug Strangers)
Luckily, you don’t need to attend an “oxytocin party” or buy a $30 bottle of oxytocin spray to boost your levels.
There are natural ways to encourage oxytocin production and make entrepreneurship feel less like a solo mission.
1. Get Physical (But in a Non-Creepy Way)
- Hugs do work—but so does any form of positive physical contact, like a pat on the back, a handshake, or even playing with a pet.
- Petting animals has been scientifically proven to increase oxytocin, which is why therapy dogs are so effective. If you work remotely, a furry friend might be the perfect co-worker.
- Massage or even self-massage can stimulate oxytocin release and lower stress.
2. Magnesium & Vitamin C: The Nutrient Connection
- Magnesium is crucial for oxytocin production. If you’re deficient, you may naturally feel more distrustful and disconnected.
- Vitamin C also plays a role in oxytocin release. Boost your intake with foods like spinach, pumpkin seeds, tuna (for magnesium) and bell peppers, broccoli, and citrus (for vitamin C).
3. Do Something Exciting with Others
- Research shows shared adventures and challenges boost oxytocin far more than casual socializing.
- Entrepreneurs who regularly engage in networking events, business retreats, or even recreational activities (like hiking, rock climbing, or game nights) build stronger oxytocin-fueled connections.
4. The Power of Giving
- Gift-giving isn’t just for holidays—it’s an oxytocin hack.
- Whether it’s surprising a friend with coffee, sending a thoughtful email, or supporting a colleague’s project, the act of giving increases oxytocin levels for both the giver and the receiver.
5. Visualize Connection
- Meditating on positive social interactions can trigger oxytocin production, even if you’re physically alone.
- Thinking about loved ones, recalling happy memories, or simply expressing gratitude can boost mood and oxytocin.
6. Prioritize Face-to-Face (Even If It’s Virtual)
- While digital communication isn’t as effective as in-person interaction, video calls still trigger oxytocin release more than texting or emailing.
- Try voice messages over text and video meetings over emails to maximize connection.
7. Get Intimate (Yes, Sex Counts Too)
- Sex is one of the biggest natural oxytocin boosters, but interestingly, men and women experience oxytocin surges at different times.
- Men tend to get an oxytocin rush before sex, driving connection and motivation.
- Women get the highest oxytocin spike after sex, deepening the bond.
- Whether in a relationship or not, any form of physical intimacy (even cuddling) can trigger oxytocin.
The Takeaway: Connection is Key to Success
Loneliness, stress, and motivation dips aren’t just mental hurdles—they’re chemical imbalances that impact performance, creativity, and happiness. As digital entrepreneurs, we can’t afford to let oxytocin levels crash.
The Fix?
- Prioritize real-life interactions. Even small efforts—like getting coffee with a friend or joining a coworking space—can have massive benefits.
- Be intentional about social bonding. A text or Slack message isn’t enough—make time for face-to-face (or at least voice) interactions.
- Fuel your brain with the right nutrients. Magnesium and vitamin C aren’t just for general health; they literally help you build trust and connection.
- Give freely. Acts of kindness aren’t just good for the world—they’re good for your brain.
Success isn’t just about strategy—it’s about how you feel while doing it. And how you feel is often dictated by one simple chemical: oxytocin.
So, go pet your dog, call a friend, and maybe even plan that business retreat you’ve been putting off. Your oxytocin levels (and your business) will thank you.
About the Author:
Julie Lewis, Gamification Expert | Certified Nutrition Coach | SEO Specialist | Online Business Strategist | Tech Nerd
Julie has been developing websites for over 2 decades. Growing up as an online gamer and fascinated by health & psychology, she merged her "nerdiness" into an online business. Using her technical skills and gamification research, she teaches female entrepreneurs how to develop their online strategy to engage their customers and LEVEL UP their online business!
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