For me the most interesting connections have happened in the least-expected ways, which means I can’t give a good answer. Many years ago I suffered from painfu

For me the most interesting connections have happened in the least-expected ways, which means I can’t give a good answer. Many years ago I suffered from painful shyness. A friend who did not have that problem told me to try acting “not shy.” He suggested I go out of my way to talk to at least one stranger every day, even if just to ask a question that might start a conversation. “What’s the best coffee (food, drink, etc.) here?” At a bar I will ask the bartender to give me a shot of her favorite whiskey or tequila, then ask why that’s her favorite. That kind of thing. I have started some good conversations and met some great people that way. And over time the shyness receded as well. In general people love to talk, and many people feel lonely and want to connect, so they welcome someone who makes the first move as long as it’s not creepy or intrusive. You have to read the situation of course, but a smile and sincere question or comment can work most of the time.