How to Build a More Collaborative World Through Conversations
This recipe was created by our friends at Acquaint.org. Thank you for sharing your recipe and inspiring others to make a positive impact in their community!
Why this recipe matters
In this world of technology and convenience, it is easier than ever to choose aloneness over community, but few things are more important than our relationships with ourselves, each other, and the world. In fact, according to UNESCO, strengthening our ability to communicate across differences is essential if humanity is going to solve its most pressing challenges. The more we engage in meaningful conversations, the more power and influence we gain to create positive change in the world.
Recipe
1) Get intentional.
- Remember, the purpose of this recipe is to learn, grow, and feel a sense of connection with the other person, not to get something out of them. Remove any transactional elements from the conversation and try to make the exchange as meaningful as possible.
2) Find places to connect
- Organizations like Acquaint recruit volunteers to engage in real conversations with people from over 110 countries. You can learn more and sign up at https://acquaint.org/u/recipe!
- Here are some other ways to find places to connect with others:
- Seek out people at your local community organization, religious group, or just in your neighborhood and strike up a conversation with them.
- Join community groups, either online, through social media, or via in-person clubs, where members share similar interests but come from different generations and cultural backgrounds.
- Look for volunteer opportunities that focus on human connection, such as mentorship programs or language exchanges.
3) Practice effective communication techniques.
- Whether you’re connecting with people in a group setting or one-on-one with Acquaint, here are some helpful tips to encourage meaningful interactions:
- Ask open-ended questions. Instead of “yes” or “no” questions, ask questions that begin with “how,” “what,” “who,” “when,” and “why?” For example, "What is a tradition from your culture that makes you proud?"
- Listen attentively without interrupting. Although it can be tempting, try to avoid thinking about what you will say next while someone else is speaking.
- A great exchange will ideally involve each person sharing equally. Be ready to talk about your own experiences, values, and perspectives.
- Be aware of your triggers and approach controversial topics with caution. If you know specific topics may upset you or someone else, you can either try to avoid them or prepare a response that will de-escalate tensions.
4) Reflect on what you learned.
- After each conversation, take a moment to think: What did I learn? What misconceptions or ideas can I rethink?
- Write down your reflections to track your personal growth.
- Acquaint encourages volunteers to send each other “notes of appreciation” after each one-on-one dialogue. If given the chance, share your reflections with the person you learned from at some point after the conversation, like via email or a phone call.
5) Multiply the impact
- Share what you learned on social media or with friends to inspire others.
- Organize small talks or workshops in your community to promote inclusive dialogue.
Nutritional information
Practicing effortful human connection on a regular basis is a healthy choice. A recent study revealed that connecting with a wide array of people, ranging from close relationships to complete strangers, increases our sense of wellbeing. With programs like Acquaint, you can form a new habit that will inspire personal growth and help you influence the people in your life. A good examples is this testimony from Jahleel from Nigeria.
“Through volunteering with Acquaint, I have learnt about the world in ways that go beyond textbooks or media. This understanding has not only broadened my perspective but has also helped me approach people with more empathy and openness. I have realised that I can talk to anyone, from anywhere in the world, and create a profound connection.”
Finishing touch
Everyone brings their own style and flavor to this recipe, so don’t hesitate to get creative! No matter how you approach conversations with new people, it’s your effort, respect, and openness that make all the difference. Furthermore, regularly practicing this recipe can be a foundation for learning many other new recipes as well. How can you apply what you learn through these impactful dialogues? What positive changes can you bring to your relationships or your local community? The possibilities are boundless.
By connecting with people we don’t normally connect with, we not only enrich our own perspective but also contribute to a more collaborative, understanding, and tolerant future. Take the first step and start that conversation—be part of the change!