Mister Rogers had a point – routinely greeting six neighbors maximizes wellbeing
I once traveled (for work) with a Dutch guy that was a few years older. He loved to travel and loved interacting with people, even though he was not the best bespoken. In an aeroplane, he randomly spoke to people, asked interesting questions and people were generally nice to him. When I saw this, I thought, this is what I want -- speak to any person\stranger without having to overcome any fear.And my wish appeared to be strong enough, after a while i became a person who will talk to almost anybody at any place. It feels liberating.However, like with so many things in life, it has a flip side, it comes with disadvantages. Sometimes I get feedback that I am too forthcoming. Also, I get disappointed sometimes. In the q at the bakery, people are often saying nothing, staring at their phone screen (mostly the younger people). So i open up a conversation, people are waiting anyways. Almost each time i have the first and the last word, which feels awkward. Also, i have the feeling that younger people often have a lack of interacting skills, when it is in-person, they seem to be uncomfortable. So talking to them can give an awkward feeling in the end.Maybe some people recognize this and could give advice?