Why We Need More “Little Relationships” (And How To Get Them)

One of the many lessons we have been forced to learn from the pandemic is the importance of social interaction and the ravages of social isolation. Besides close relationships with friends and family, weak social ties are also necessary for our well-being. I know how easy it is to lock yourself out of interacting with strangers. Building small relationships with surrounding members of powerful impact.

Here’s how to embrace these often-overlooked interactions and how they can make your life a little more enjoyable.

Why You Need Small Social Interactions

Recently research It shows that even weak social interactions, such as a quick interaction with a barista or a stranger on the sidewalk, can have a positive impact on our well-being. Gillian Sundstrom, whose work aims to combat social isolation.in a podcast episode hidden brainshe further explains that people who seek weaker social ties ultimately feel more life satisfaction and have a greater sense of belonging.

It’s easy to live your life with your head down, avoiding the far end of your social network, whether it’s a colleague you’ve never chatted with or a neighbor whose name you don’t remember. You may not think your life is lacking, but you could be depriving yourself of potential happiness by avoiding such small interactions.

how to build small relationships

I’m the type of person who jokes into a microphone in public, but I’m too nervous to ask the barista for the Wi-Fi password. Previous research on social interaction found that the pessimism we feel about talking to strangers is greatly exaggeratedChatting with strangers on the subway or taking the time to get to know the cashier’s name is a mutually beneficial experience for all parties involved, but in reality, it’s about making a fool of yourself. i’m worried about wOf course, there are some important caveats. Here are some tips to start building small relationships in your life that can make you feel a little less lonely.

Look around your social network. Sandstrom defines a weak bond when you and an acquaintance are familiar with each other. Think of your favorite coffee shop, grocery store, or gym. same person. Take the brave first step to admit that you and the stranger likely recognize each other. .

investigate. literally! Consider taking off your earbuds, looking up from your phone, and smiling at others as you go about your day. You might start identifying familiar faces to introduce yourself later. You may be making yourself available to those who need directions, or you may just not feel lonely from a small wave or nod. from a stranger.

Don’t be creepy. Sadly, you have to think about who you’re trying to connect with here. As I mentioned at the beginning, most women are conditioned not to converse with men they don’t know.It’s just reality. Respect people’s boundaries and don’t force conversations with people who clearly want to be alone.

listen to your gut. Same as above: If you’re concerned that your small talk is putting them in danger (or putting you in danger!), Listen to that instinct. But if what’s holding you back is fear of embarrassment or embarrassment, motivate yourself to overcome that anxiety.

If you want to avoid unnecessary interactions, keep your headphones on and stare at the ground. But if you think it’s safe to ask a stranger for their name, go for it. The days of two people may become a little more fun.