#436: Unlock the POWER of Diverse Social Connections with Kasley Killam, MPH, Author, Chief Connection Chemist

Social Awkwardness

Navigating social situations can be daunting, especially after periods of isolation. Heather Monahan shares her own experiences of feeling awkward when re-entering social settings post-COVID, despite being extroverted 1. Kasley Killam, an introvert, emphasizes the value of reaching out, noting that the effort is often more rewarding than anticipated. She highlights research showing that people appreciate unexpected messages more than we assume, and that there's a "liking gap" where we underestimate how much others enjoy our company 1.

We underestimate how meaningful it is to the recipient for us to reach out and say hello.

--- Kasley Killam

These insights encourage us to push past initial discomfort and foster meaningful connections.

   

Micro Moments

Small, everyday interactions play a crucial role in building a sense of community and belonging. Kasley Killam explains that these "micro moments" of connection, such as greeting a neighbor or chatting with a coworker, can significantly impact our social health 2. She suggests simple practices like setting reminders to express gratitude or maintaining a "to love" list to prioritize important relationships 3.

Those small interactions really matter. They make us feel more like we're part of something and like we matter.

--- Kasley Killam

By being intentional about these interactions, we can enhance our sense of connection and community.