CHRIS CALDERON

We are experiencing loads of technological advancements that, while providing numerous benefits, have also contributed to a decline in face-to-face interactions. The rise of social media and digital communication platforms has made it easier for people to connect virtually, but this has come at the expense of genuine, in-person connections. People are increasingly relying on virtual interactions, leading to a decrease in the quality and depth of relationships.

New York City is a melting pot of cultures, ideas, and experiences. Despite its diverse population, the fast-paced nature of life in the city can sometimes hinder the development of deep human connections. I must, acknowledge that while New York City offers countless opportunities for interaction, the transient nature of its residents and the constant hustle can make it challenging to form lasting connections. I believe that micro makes the macro.

Think of building beautiful practices within your environment and really focusing on how you engage with the world around you. In the digital age, social media often creates the illusion of connection without fostering genuine relationships. While platforms like Instagram can provide a space for self-expression and a sense of belonging, they can also contribute to surface-level connections that lack depth.

New York City's large population and fast-paced lifestyle can lead to a sense of anonymity and disconnection. People can feel lost in the crowd, making it harder to form meaningful bonds with others. Not to mention the time constraints, demanding nature of work, and personal commitments can leave little time for individuals to invest in building and nurturing relationships. The constant juggling of responsibilities can create a barrier to deep human connection.

I would love to offer insights on how to improve and strengthen human connection in your life.

1. Embrace vulnerability: Opening up and being vulnerable with others can lay the foundation for genuine human connections. I encourage you to step out of your comfort zones and engage in authentic conversations with a random stranger. I offer practices to my son when we are leaving the house daily, little fun tasks that could make the day fun yet vulnerable. One of the tasks I offer up that I believe has fostered many beautiful moments is to say 10 nice things to 10 different people. Seems small, but one genuine positive comment could spark a bond that could last forever.

I have felt so many times I’ve held back telling a stranger something positive on my mind. Maybe I thought they were “too busy” or “I didn’t want to bother them”. In reality I have never had anyone not happy when I've stopped them to tell them something beautiful. Some of those times have created lasting friendships that will be part of my life forever. In my eyes, these types of vulnerable practices allow for deeper connections to flourish.

2. Active Listening : Taking the time to truly listen and understand others fosters empathy and connection. Emphasize a sense of importance to being present in conversations, putting aside distractions and genuinely engaging with those around us. Listen to the people you talk to as a blank piece of paper. Tap in to listening to strangers and friends as if they were a good podcast. View this as a good time to learn about their experiences and feelings more than waiting your turn to relate to the topic.

3. Community Building: Building strong communities within neighborhoods and workplaces is vital for fostering human connection. Highlight the importance of organizing community events, supporting local businesses, and creating spaces where people can come together and form meaningful relationships. Pick anything you like and find a group class to attend by yourself. Immerse yourself in the community. If you’re a more intimate person, let the moment guide you to a new friendship within the space that can spark a connection adjacent to the community. Making new connections, especially as an adult, can be tough. Start small, water the plant and allow it to grow.

4. Unplugging from Technology: While technology has its benefits, I encourage individuals to take regular breaks from social media and digital distractions. By disconnecting from screens and prioritizing face-to-face interactions, people can forge deeper connections and be fully present in the moment. Give yourself specific amounts of time for doom scrolling. This will become easier and you will be excited to put the phone down to have more face-to-face interaction.

5. Expressing Gratitude: The practice of expressing gratitude for the connections we already have. Taking the time to appreciate and acknowledge the people who bring joy and meaning to our lives can strengthen existing relationships and inspire new connections. I know it is a small gesture, but after spending time with someone, I send them a simple thank you for whatever it is I felt. A small message of appreciation letting someone know how you felt can build something strong. I would like to thank you for reading this article, it took time, energy and inspiration. I value your time and can only hope I have given you something potent to add to your life.

Through the lens of these practices, we gain valuable insights into the state of human connection. While the fast-paced lifestyle and transient nature of the city pose challenges, there are practical steps that individuals can take to improve the quality of their connections. By embracing vulnerability, actively listening, building communities, unplugging from technology, and expressing gratitude, we can create a stronger sense of human connection in our daily lives. These practices remind us that true connection is possible, even in a busy city like New York, and that small moments of connection can have a profound impact on our well-being and the overall fabric of society.

With love,

Chris

Photos by Melissa Alcena