Making Connections, Part 5: Building Habits & Social Confidence
Estimated reading time: 4 minutes
Part 4 was about practicing deeper conversations, this one’s about keeping the momentum going.
Habits and confidence don’t come from one decision or one moment. They come from regular, intentional practice. The more you build connection into your routine, the less intimidating it feels — and the less resistance you’ll notice.
Growth takes time — confidence does, too.
Habit #1: Start Small
Don’t wait for a “perfect” opportunity. Try a smile, a hello, or a quick comment. The goal isn’t a deep conversation every time — it’s flexing the muscle of interaction.
Habit #2: Work It Into Your Routine
Look at what you’re already doing.
If you walk your dog, linger at the park.
If you get coffee every morning, strike up a short chat with your barista or someone in line.
These small add-ons make connection part of your normal life instead of something you have to plan for.
Habit #3: Be Playful, Not Performative
Playfulness lowers the stakes. A lighthearted comment or shared laugh shows you’re approachable.
You don’t need to impress — you just need to engage.
When you treat interactions like small moments of play instead of performance, connection feels lighter and easier.
A Challenge to Try
Talk to three new people this week. It doesn’t matter if they become friends, dates, or just passing conversations.
What matters is practicing curiosity and noticing how much easier it gets each time.
Closing Thoughts
Confidence grows through repetition, not perfection. The more you practice, the more natural it feels — and the more likely you are to build real-life connections that stick.
Making Connections is an series about where and how to meet people, move beyond small talk, and build real relationships.
Series Recap
Missed an earlier part of the Making Connections series? Catch up here:
Part 1: Mindset
Part 3: How to Go Beyond Small Talk
Part 4: Practicing Deeper Conversations
