Oddbean new post about login | logout Yeah we've collectively forgotten how to talk to strangers. I'm often guilty of it as much as the next guy. The attention to the consequences of your work as an engineer is commendable.
Also I'd argue it isn't really a general thing either. Plenty of older people 50s+ are just as bad or worse at this in my experience. Maybe not with a phone in their face, but equally awkward or bothered in public.
It's a skill. I think part of that skill must come from taking in interesting and beautiful things, so that you can make meaningful conversation with people. First, though, one needs a conversation starter and a bit of courage. That takes practice.
Any tips? On the first part?
Not sure, as it's something I'm still learning. Some ideas, though: - Read a lot. Fiction, nonfiction, essays, and occasional news. Or if reading isn't always practical, podcasts and audio books do a pretty good job in the place of physical books. - Talk about meaningful things with your friends. Make connections. Think about how the movie you just saw relates to the essay you just read. - Engage in hobbies. Something that interests you can you can get excited about with other people. - Jog or garden or do something physical outside, that makes you attend to the weather, the skies, the seasons, and the natural world. - Ask questions and listen. - Laugh at other people's jokes, and at your own.