This 1950s Guide To Better Conversation May Be Just What The World Needs After The Pandemic

hbrh - stock.adobe.com
hbrh - stock.adobe.com

Since mask mandates have been lifted and infection rates have slowed, the outside world is returning to some form of “normal.”

Restaurants are buzzing, brick-and-mortar shops are bustling, and many people are itching to interact with others.

The only overarching problem is social anxiety. Over the last decade, technology massively hampered people’s ability to interact face-to-face.

But now, following two years of isolation, feelings of nervousness in social situations have peaked among the population.

In fact, according to the World Health Organization (WHO), the COVID-19 pandemic sparked “a twenty-five percent increase in the prevalence of anxiety worldwide.”

While this is entirely normal and expected following such a tumultuous period in modern history, you may be wondering how to “get back out there” and socialize enjoyably.

Well, this classically cheesy “how-to” video from the 1950s might just be the motivation you need. While the tips and tricks for having better conversations may sound incredibly obvious, they can also serve as basic helpful reminders for successful social interactions.

The film first discusses how robust conversations mirror a good game of volleyball. The topic of choice should relate to the people involved and give them a chance to jump in with their perspectives.

After all, excluding others is a sure-fire way to kill a conversation.

hbrh – stock.adobe.com

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Second, a conversation’s flow need not be overly structured or forced. Instead, the best conversations progress effortlessly and spontaneously. Let loose and allow the topic of conversation to evolve!

Finally, the whole point of conversing is to connect with others in a meaningful and enjoyable way. Do not put so much stress on yourself to lead or direct.

Instead, just spark a conversation and remember to listen carefully. You may learn something new!

The film even provides some cliché skits as examples. So, besides getting a nice refresher on the lost art of worthwhile conversation, you might also muster a nostalgic laugh or two in the process.

To watch the full film on YouTube, visit the link here.

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Katharina Buczek graduated from Stony Brook University with a degree in Journalism and a minor in Digital Arts. Specializing ... More about Katharina Buczek

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