New Connections: The Surprising Benefits of Meeting New People

During the course of my day I come into contact with lots of people – waiters, store clerks, clients, neighbors, fellow church goers, etc. Most of those people are somewhat familiar faces but a few of them are new and unknown. My temptation is to just smile, nod, and go on – after all, I have things to do.

Research Shows Connection Has Real Benefits

Research is showing some surprising benefits in taking time to get to know and connect with new people in our lives:

• Improved cognitive performance
• Better mental attitude
• Improved ability to learn to accept new ideas and ways of thinking

A study in Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin states that as little as 10 minutes of contact and conversation with a new person actively uses the parts of your brain required to talk to other people and process social cues. This, in turn, wakes up those parts of your brain and improves your thinking. In other words, meeting new people gives your brain a workout!

New Connections Open New Opportunities

Meeting new people can open up new opportunities. I've had this experience several times. I meet someone at a social event and start talking to them. We discover some common ground and the other person mentions something that is exactly what I had been looking for — and would never have thought of on my own.

New People Can Become Friends

Friends can prevent loneliness, boost happiness and reduce stress, improve self-confidence, help you cope with traumas, and encourage you to change habits. Sometimes I have to remind myself to slow down and take the time to actually have a conversation with someone instead of rushing past them. Yes, it can require some effort and patience — but it's worth it. Who do you need to connect with?