Showing Interest
I don’t know if you’ve noticed over the years, but I tend to get curious about a lot of topics. I’ll deep-dive into a concept or a theme or an industry for days, weeks, or even months at a time. I’ll research the topic, immerse myself in all the knowledge I can find, and start to use metaphors and contextual examples of the concept in many of my articles for a varied amount of time (usually until some other new concept captures my interest and imagination.
Usually I’m off in a little world of my own (and happy to be there), but I’m also excited to share the ideas and information about my current passion to anyone who shoes (or feigns) interest.
Your family, friends, and clients all have an interest like this
They may have a hobby or side hustle or talent/skill that they hold in special esteem — and would love a chance to share those ideas and insights to anyone who seems even casually interested.
If you want to connect with someone, show interest in their interests
Show just a bit of genuine interest in another person’s passion project and watch them open up. The most introverted individuals will burst open with the energy of a kernel of popcorn in hot oil.
