Social Life
"Good friends are like the stars, you don't always see them - but you know they are there."
"A smile from you can bring happiness to anyone, even if they do not like you"
SOCIAL LIFE - we are social creatures who have been deluded into thinking we are separate from each other. Life for millions of years was communal, probably a partnership model, unlike the male dominance patriarchy which has ruled us for at least 3500 years. We have to connect in order to be safe, healthy and whole.
We live in a material society where the pursuit of material possession is often admired and a driving force. However, pursuing material possessions often does not lead to long term happiness, because there is always another milestone to reach, another goal to achieve. In addition, there are usually others that are a part of our lives who may be jealous or envious of our wealth so we feel the need to protect ourselves or our possessions. This can lead to cutting them out of our lives, isolation or, at a minimum, instilling a lack of trust in others.
In the process of chasing material possessions, we often cut off the things that matter most in life. We become lonely even though we are surrounded with material possessions. We may even cut off the possibility to experience love or to be loved by someone else.
If it isn’t wealth, we sometimes cut ourselves off for protection from the possibility of the emotional pain we may endure for letting someone get too close to us. We put up barriers around us and refuse to let people in; and so, we live a very lonely life. In spite of the pain that may come from being emotionally close to another person, there is no greater joy in life than to feel the love for another, or to love, and to share in all that it implies.
Being More Approachable
Be more approachable, likable, and respected by being humble. With humility, we value others’ perspectives and experiences. After all, whoever learned anything new by listening only to themselves? True humility isn’t about minimizing your own value—it’s about having a balanced view of yourself while showing genuine respect, open-mindedness, and appreciation for others. When you practice humility, the growth and self-awareness you experience can enrich your life and positively impact those around you.
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Here are a few ways to being more approachable while staying true to who you are:
1. Show Genuine Interest
There’s a common temptation to prove your intelligence by quickly sharing your opinions. Resist that urge. Instead, show curiosity. Ask thoughtful questions that draw out the other person’s ideas and insights. Doing so fosters trust and demonstrates a humble mindset.
2. Avoid Interrupting
Interrupting sends a message that your thoughts matter more than others’. This habit is often unintentional, especially when we feel passionate about a subject. But learning when to speak and when to listen is key. With awareness and practice, you can sense the right time to yield the floor—ensuring that everyone feels heard and respected.
3. Practice Active Listening
If you're always trying to predict what someone will say next, your reply may seem disconnected or self-centered. True listening requires you to be present. Let the person finish speaking before you respond. This not only shows respect but also strengthens your ability to connect meaningfully.
4. Ask Thoughtful Questions
When you truly listen, follow-up questions come naturally. They show that you're engaged and invested in the conversation. People are more likely to listen to your ideas when they feel that theirs have been acknowledged first. Be intentional, and let your curiosity guide you.
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Humility is not weakness—it’s a quiet strength. It allows you to learn, grow, and connect more deeply with others. When you're humble and true to yourself, you don’t lose your voice—you amplify it with empathy, awareness, and purpose. Best of all, you will be likely to gain the respect and trust of those around you.
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