The power of micro connections
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How to feel more socially connected and happier.
Do you feel uplifted when you exchange a smile with a stranger in the street? How about making small talk about the weather with the person behind the till at your local shop? Or maybe you wave a hello to the neighbour across the street whenever you see them because it feels natural and like a nice thing to do. You might not know these people very well, or even know their names, but these ‘weak ties’ can have a significant effect on our happiness and sense of belonging.
Strong vs. weak
Strong social ties are characterised by people we have a deep affinity with, a shared history and life experiences; family, friends and work colleagues. Weak ties are more acquaintances, familiar faces or even friendly strangers we might share a moment with (see above). Weak ties might be a little talked about concept but they’ve been around for decades. Influential sociologist Mark Granvetter first wrote about the power of these seemingly small, superf...
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