Why Is It Better to Be Warm Than Just to Be Polite
To make real, meaningful connections with other people, you need to make them feel welcome, and polite as well. But the real key is warmth that goes beyond simply giving people what they need or treating them with basic respect. This is what we mean.
Politeness is important, make no mistake, but sometimes it can create distance rather than bring you closer to those around you. If you’re both polite and warm, you can truly communicate, strengthening your relationship . In the video above, The School of Life explains several ways to radiate heat.
- Pay attention to people’s small needs . Look for small ways to help others, such as offering a pillow or comfy blanket to make someone more comfortable on your couch.
- Think back to when someone does something uncomfortable . If a friend lets the fart slip or spills his drink, make him feel at ease. For example, you might say, “Don’t worry about it, I usually make a mess.”
- Be vulnerable and show your personality . Share a part of yourself by making a homemade gift or card, or playing your favorite playlist and inviting others to dance.
Open up to others to appear sincere. You have to do it on purpose at first, but after a while your warmth will become second nature.
How to be warm | School of Life (YouTube)