Yes, the title of this article probably goes against everything you were taught. We all were told from a young age by our parents, “Don’t talk to strangers.” Well, this article adopts a new philosophy: talk to strangers. Of course, do so with caution. If you’re going to take this advice, make sure you are in a safe environment, preferably around other people, and that the stranger does not exhibit any red flags.
Here are five reasons why I’m telling you that you should talk to strangers.
1. Learn something new
This is real life "Humans of New York." My old journalism teacher used to tell me and my classmates that everyone has a story. This is true--everyone comes from different backgrounds and experiences, and no two people are the same. If you strike up a conversation with someone, you may learn an interesting fact about them or even a little piece of history.
2. Make a new friend
Now, this isn’t always the case--not EVERYONE connects perfectly. However, if you find someone special that you can relate to, and one conversation blossoms into a beautiful friendship, or even a relationship, wouldn’t you say it was worth taking the risk? Sometimes, you have to take fate into your own hands.
3. Make their day
Unless this stranger is hopelessly irritable or incredibly anti-social, a conversation can turn a day around. I have not once started a conversation with someone and had them flat out reject any interaction. Being social is a part of human nature; both of you will walk away feeling better and happier. Not only that, but if they are feeling alone or uncared for, just a few words and a smile can make things a little better.
4. Improve your social skills
I will admit, I used to be so shy that I could barely look at anyone. But, since I decided to reach out to people I didn’t know and make new friends, this is not the case anymore. Although I am a rather extreme example, everyone has a little to gain from talking to strangers routinely. Both small talk and deep conversations will come more easily, and, with time, you will learn how to create engaging and meaningful experiences out of any encounter. There will be a few awkward experiences along the way, but there is so much to gain.
5. Earn a new perspective
All of these things will make you a better and stronger person while improving the attitudes and outlooks of the strangers you engage with. Not only that, but you will also look at people differently. Strangers aren’t always scary and unapproachable beings; they’re just people. People with families and friends that you can relate to or learn from. People with feelings and emotions just like you. People with lives and stories worth hearing. Every person you see is more than just a face in the crowd.
So the next time you’re waiting in line at Starbucks, sitting on an airplane, or walking down the street, unplug from your smartphone and strike up a conversation with the person next to you. You might find that strangers aren’t so scary after all.
