Research suggests people want to connect with old friends, hesitate to make first move

Research suggests people want to connect with old friends, hesitate to make first move

Have you ever thought about reaching out to an old friend but hesitated, fearing you'd be a bother? This episode of People First Radio dives into the fascinating research conducted by Lara Aknin, Director of the Helping and Happiness Lab at Simon Fraser University. Aknin explores why many of us are reluctant to reconnect with old friends, even though we genuinely want to. She reveals that over 90% of people have someone they care about but have lost touch with.

The hesitation often stems from worries about intruding, awkwardness, or simply not wanting to be a bother. Interestingly, people are less concerned about potential losses on their side. Aknin's studies show that only about 30% of people actually send a message to an old friend when given the opportunity. However, when participants engaged in a warm-up task, like sending messages to regularly contacted friends and family, the number jumped to over 50%.

This suggests that a little practice can significantly boost our willingness to reconnect. The episode also touches on the emotional rewards of social connections, whether with close friends or strangers. Aknin shares that people who do reach out often feel happier afterward. So, could this be the nudge you need to reconnect with someone from your past? By the end of this episode, you'll likely feel inspired to take that first step.

Why not be the one to break the silence and rekindle an old friendship?