I sneezed at the gym recently and felt like the whole world had stopped. I am rarely self-conscious, but everyone froze and looked at me. After about 10 seconds, someone said, “Bless you.” I weakly responded, “Thank you!” I felt like I contaminated the whole gym. Post-Covid, even the littlest interactions may produce anxiety and dread.
We are relearning how to interact with others after COVID isolation, which heightens our sense of awkwardness, embarrassment, or fear of rejection. Here are five simple tips to push past awkwardness, increase your friendliness, and break up with isolation.
- EYES: Look people in the eyes when you speak to them or they speak to you. It is said that the eyes are the windows to our soul. Looking at people is the simplest way of seeing and expressing value—your own and others.
- EARS: Give people your full listening attention. Shut off your phone or podcast and focus on listening for something in common, something to compliment, and something to comfort.
- MOUTH: Say something uplifting or inquire about people. “How are you today.” “Have a great day.” “Enjoy the sunshine.” “Or my husband’s favorites: “Thanks for coming to work today and helping the world go round.” “You’re my hero for the day.” Like an echo, when you are friendly, others will generally be friendly right back.
- Something in common: Ask people some of their favorite things to do. Ask them how they are doing. You may discover something in common to discuss or have an opportunity to encourage someone. (Asking them to tell you about “that” is a great way to keep the conversation going.)
- Something to compliment: It is easy to say, “Nice job.” “That’s great.” “What a cool thing to do!“ Great jacket.” Decide to be as encouraging to others as you want them to be toward you.
- Something to comfort: It is easy to say, “I am sorry.” “That’s hard.” “Hang in there.” (If you are brave, ask them if you can pray with them.)
- HANDS: Where appropriate, shake hands, pat someone on the back, or touch their forearm. Touch says acceptance.
- FEET: Take the first step to look, listen, speak, and accept. Don’t wait for others. Lead. Start practicing these simple steps. Your intentional friendliness can set the tone for everyone.
These are simple and may initially feel awkward. Recognize that not everyone will respond positively. So don’t take it personally. Determine to be friendly as a matter of character, not for what you do or don’t receive in return. Intentional friendliness is a thing. Have fun! You never know what new friend you will make or whose day you will make a little better.
#socialawkwardness #breakisolation #intentionalfriendliness #walkbyfaith #embarrassment #fearofrejection