I recently heard a new term: micro-interactions. I was sharing with my co-worker the topic of my column that appeared last week on how to meet new people and make friends as an older adult. I shared the story of the 95-year-old man who enjoys conversations with the barista at the local coffee shop.
My co-worker shared with me a new term called “micro-interactions,” which describes this situation perfectly. As the word sounds, it refers to small interactions with people that do not become full friendships or deep relationships. Though small, these interactions can make us feel fulfilled and increase our quality of life.
I tried to research this term, but it does not really exist yet. Instead, what I found was a definition that refers to single interactive moments in a product that enhances the workflow and makes the product more enjoyable. That certainly translates in my opinion to how small singular interactions with people can make your day more enjoyable.
It reminded me of one of my favorite movies, About Time. This movie is about a man who learns he can go back in time within his own life. He started re-living each day and seeing things in a positive way. He would go back to the day and change how he interacted with others and allow himself to get the most joy from every part of the day.
After time, he learns he does not even have to go back in time, he simply lives each day to the fullest and experiences every detail as delightful. This is the secret to his happiness and a beautiful theme in the movie.
A few years ago, a Dutch grocery store introduced checkout lanes designated as slow lanes to allow and encourage people who enjoy chatting. This helps so many people who may feel lonely and want to enjoy visiting a little with the checkout person. This becomes their micro-interaction of the day which can change their entire mood.
I am sure we can all remember both a time when we were in a rush and held up by someone who was talking too much, and also remember a time when our mood was lightened by a particularly friendly cashier.
A friend of mine was once shopping at Trader Joe’s, and the cashier was being friendly and asking about their day. My friend shared that it had been a difficult day as her husband was in the hospital. The cashier spontaneously gifted my friend with flowers. This moment meant so much to my friend and changed the course of that day.
I challenge us all to pay attention to these micro-interactions and to make the most of them. Long-term friendships are certainly important, but we can also see the value and resiliency that is built from smaller interactions. They may be shorter, but they can still be genuine and uplifting.
The next time you have the opportunity, give an extra friendly compliment or question to a stranger and see what happens. You may end up making both of your days a little brighter.
Martha Shapiro can be reached at Senior Concerns at 805-497-0189 or by email at mshapiro@seniorconcerns.org.
