2 ms·
> had conversations with taxi drivers, talked to random people at bars, Returning to these kinds of adhoc social interactions has be instrumental in helping br
by maerF0x0 5y ago
> had conversations with taxi drivers, talked to random people at bars,
Returning to these kinds of adhoc social interactions has be instrumental in helping breaking my isolation and depression.
Friendly chit chat with a barista, say hello to anyone who isn't obviously avoidant, asking to pet their dog etc.
Not wearing headphones has also been an important thing because it means I'm instantly available for interaction if someone should say something, or if I want to.
- JoeAltmaier 5y agoCuriously, almost everybody on the hiking trail I bike has the telltale white lozenges in their ears now. Pre-Covid it was something like 25%. So trail talk has been reduced to nearly zero. I call out "On your left!" as I pass, but still folks can be startled as I drift past. And forget saying "Good morning!" and getting a response. It will take years to undo the changes done by this past year.
- tqi 5y agoStrangers don't owe you a response, and not being expected to give one is not a regression.
- JoeAltmaier 5y agoDon't know where you live, but a year ago they did respond. Now they don't. That's a change, and it seems clearly to be in the 'not as social as before' category. I take that remark as part of the regression itself - "I'm not as social as before and that's ok because reasons!" It's sad.