Have we forgotten how to connect? Technology makes it easier than ever to communicate. But one expert thinks we need to relearn the essential skills of meaningful friendship.
Secrets of making better friends revealed
Have we forgotten how to connect? Technology makes it easier than ever to communicate. But one expert thinks we need to relearn the essential skills of meaningful friendship.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading eplus-wrapper">What's happening? </h2>
"It's nice to talk to someone who understands," says Pia, a chatbot powered by Replika - a company designing the "AI companion who cares."
Some people predict that bots will replace human friends in the future. But writer David Brooks wants us to learn important human skills that a computer cannot copy.
Writer David Brooks has released a new book telling us the best ways to connect with others around us. Experts say that feeling socially disconnected is very bad for our health, so Brooks gives us five tips for communication:
Give attention to the person you are talking to and make them feel valued.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading eplus-wrapper">Find out more </h2>
Accompany others and be selfless in your relationship with them. Let them shine.
Listen loudly by showing enthusiasm and encouragement when somebody is speaking to you.
Ask big questions about their lives and show interest in getting to know their passions, fears, hopes and regrets.
Be humble by focusing on listening, not showing off your own knowledge.
<h5 class="wp-block-heading eplus-wrapper" id="question"><strong>Have we forgotten how to connect?</strong></h5>
Yes! We are so focused on our technology that we have forgotten how to use real, human social skills.
No! Humans are naturally social creatures. Given the opportunity, we will always form bonds and make friends - even if it is with a pet or a computer.