Growing up, I distinctly remember seeing new faces each time and having the urge to go up to them and say "Hi." Despite that voice in the back of my head urging me to approach them, I never did.
That all changed though when I got to high school. I "forced" myself to become more sociable and just smile at people and greet them. I especially wanted to know more people from backgrounds different from mine and knew that the only way to do so was to take a deep breath, approach them, and say hi. In most cases, I'd succeed in making conversation and getting to know a person's background and even culture; other times, I would be left muttering the words "What did I just do there?"
Even if people brushed me off from time to time (maybe its because they were too preoccupied or just aren't that sociable), I made sure that did not deter me from introducing myself to more people. I personally believe it is because of the joy of meeting someone new for the first time and possibly connecting with them instantly that will always outweigh the consequences that come with saying hi to a stranger (getting ignored, dealing with weird glances, or terse replies).
Just last week I was eating by myself at a grilled cheese restaurant in Shanghai. Because English is not commonly used in China (except in parts where foreigners frequent), I often just smile at people and try my best to introduce myself in Chinese (it also gets me to practice my Mandarin). This time around, however, the server spoke to me in English. That one simple interaction led us to have a conversation about Shanghai, education, food, and even personal aspirations. After meeting her, another customer came by. I noticed that he was alone and seemed friendly and eager to share his stories. We exchanged smiles and soon began discussing his life in China and why he has been living there for over 10 years. From this conversation, I learned that it is possible to take a train from China all the way to London (of course also stopping along the way) and found out what he was most passionate about. And though I've forgotten his name, I will never forget that one moment where I no longer felt as lonely and left the restaurant feeling excited.
But yes, talking to strangers is truly easier said than done. Personally, I look for cues before approaching someone (especially if I am not at school). I gravitate towards individuals that are eating alone, riding the subway by themselves, or feeling down and maybe could use a smile or a hello from someone. I also enjoy talking to children and complimenting people on their outfits. Giving off positivity to someone else can really make a huge impact in their day.
And so next time you walk pass by someone you do not know, flash a grin at them and say hello. That one interaction might just lead to a very interesting and unforgettable moment.
