social connection — Tips, advice, and community resources for Skipping the Small Talk — Skip the Small Talk

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We've curated tips, stories, and inspiration to help you Skip the Small Talk in your everyday life.

Posts tagged social connection

Talking to Strangers: The Science of Why It’s Less Awkward Than You Think

Talking to Strangers: The Science of Why It’s Less Awkward Than You Think

Talking to strangers often feels awkward or risky — but research tells a different story. In my conversation with social psychologist Dr. Gillian Sandstrom, we explore rejection, the liking gap, and why we consistently underestimate the benefits of talking to strangers.

Social ConnectionAshley KirsnerMarch 8, 2026talking to strangers, conversation skills, fear of rejection, liking gap, making friends, social connection, social anxiety reductionComment

How to Connect With Your Community

How to Connect With Your Community

Read on for five ways to connect with the people around you.

BlogAllison ScharmannJuly 7, 2025connection, social connection, loneliness, loneliness epidemic, lonely, deep conversation, community, connectComment

How to Make New Friends (And Keep the Old!)

How to Make New Friends (And Keep the Old!)

As the saying goes: Make new friends, but keep the old.

BlogAllison ScharmannApril 24, 2025friendship, friends, friendship advice, making friends, social connection, friendComment

Lessons From the Blue Zones

Lessons From the Blue Zones

There’s no single way to live a healthy life, but people living in Blue Zones have a few ideas.

BlogAllison ScharmannOctober 10, 2024lifestyle, happiness, community, connection, stress, stress reduction, social connection, social bonds, conversationComment