#56 Let’s Chat

Let’s Chat

Think back to the last time you took the train, bus, or a flight – did you strike up a conversation with the person next to you, or fixate on your phone and put your earphones in, so you wouldn’t have to speak to anyone?

If you’re like me, you probably did the latter, certain that you’d be happier keeping to yourself.

Research by Psychologist Gillian Sandstrom, however, reveals that in these situations, our instincts are often wrong. Numerous studies have demonstrated that short interactions with “weak ties,” such as coffee baristas, service workers, and acquaintances, improve our social and emotional wellbeing. 

As explained in this podcast, Sandstrom’s research shows that, when we overcome our reluctance to talk to strangers and initiate more of these conversations, we actually increase our happiness and satisfaction with life.  (To see how one Dutch grocery chain is encouraging connections, read about “chat checkout lanes” here.)