Talking to strangers can be a valuable and enriching experience. It helps me to:
- Expand my horizons and learn about different perspectives and experiences.
- Challenge my biases and assumptions.
- Build new relationships and connections.
- Increase my empathy and understanding of others.
- Gain new insights into the world around me
Of course, there are also risks associated with talking to strangers. However, these risks can be mitigated by being aware of my surroundings and trusting my gut instincts. If I feel uncomfortable in a situation I’ve leaned to just walk away.
Overall, I believe that the benefits of talking to strangers outweigh the risks. By opening myself up to new people and new experiences, I have made my life richer and more fulfilling.
In addition to the above, I would also add that talking to strangers can be a way of overcoming social anxiety. By gradually exposing ourselves to others I have learned to relax and be more comfortable in social situations.
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to talk to strangers is a personal one. However, I encourage everyone to step outside of their comfort zone and give it a try. You may be surprised at the positive experiences you have.
Kevin Driscoll(Mostly) Vegetarian, Politically Progressive, Daily Runner, Spiritual, Helpful, Friendly, Kind, Warm Hearted and Forgiving. Resident of Braintree MA.
Great advice, Kevin. Overcoming social anxiety is not easy, but easing into talking to strangers is a good way to start. One has to have good radar to know if the situation may not produce a good outcome and when to disengage (and how), but that, also, takes practice. All worthy and commendable activities.
Betsy, lately I’ve noticed the chances of getting a contact high abound pretty much anywhere you walk around in my New York town!
Thanx Kevin, I fully agree with you!
In fact just the other day I started talking to a stranger in a restaurant. She told me she had worked for the Museum of Natural History and we discovered we had a mutual friend, an anthropologist who had worked there also. And we found we both liked to read, we started to talk about books we’ve enjoyed, and I invited her to join my book club! I think it’s the beginning of a beautiful friendship!
Wonderful!