People have a way of getting under the skin. Whether you’re cursing out the stranger who cut you off in traffic or you’re feeling impatient with your close friends, you may sometimes have the urge to just run off into the wilderness alone. Though variations on this fantasy tend to appear to almost all people around the world now and again, human connection is an essential part of life. Without other people nearby to confide in, vent to, and laugh with, existence can seem a lot less appealing. Unfortunately, connecting with others can prove challenging at times.
In order to deepen and strengthen relationships, you should abide by a few simple rules. By knowing the basic tenets of how to really connect to another person, you can make yourself feel more spiritually fulfilled, and even increase your overall happiness about your lot in life. Explore these tips and see how to connect in no time at all.
Sincerity Matters
Most people interact with others on a regular basis. These are usually superficial interactions. This can be when you exchange pleasantries with the barista while getting your morning coffee or when you laugh with a stranger on the street about almost bumping into one another. When you’re in a more personal situation, like chatting with a casual acquaintance or coworker, the stakes are a bit higher. Instead of relying on small talk, you have to focus on what you’re saying and how you say it. This means sincerity definitely matters.
Being genuine is a fantastic way to form a stronger link with another person. Talk from the heart, share personal anecdotes, and try to allow the person you’re speaking with to see you in the most honest light possible. To be real with someone, you usually have to care about that person to a certain degree. By connecting on a deeper level to someone who matters to you, you’re giving yourself the chance to forge bonds that may last many years and provide you with a human connection.
Actually Listen
This is a sad fact, but many people are waiting for their turn to speak rather than listening to what others are saying. While it is natural to have the desire to think up a clever response to whatever someone is telling you, it shouldn’t come at the cost of listening. When you take the time to truly listen and take in what people are saying, it can do wonders for how they perceive you. A person who realizes you’re really paying attention is going to open up more and be easier to connect with.
Listening is a skill that proves useful the more you talk with someone. The next time you meet with an individual to chat, he or she will be impressed when you recall specific details from previous conversations. You don’t need to remember everything, of course. Still, the more you focus on what you’re being told, the better of an impression you’re going to make.
Don’t Look For Reciprocation
Finally, don’t “keep score” when you’re talking with other people. If you’re remembering details about someone else but he or she can’t remember the specifics of a story you told, try not to feel slighted. Relationships are not always “tit for tat.” While it feels good to have someone meet you on your level, expecting too much from others is an easy way to sour existing relationships and prevent new ones from forming. Connect because you want to, not because you expect something in return.
Human Connection with other people is important for a person to thrive. The more you put yourself out there, the easier it will become for you to create lasting bonds with others.