LLLCF: Nicholas Epley, A Little More Social

In his new book, Nicholas Eply explains how bridging the gap between two people is easier than we think, and success more likely, if we choose to be a little more social.

Eply points out that there is a paradox at the core of human life. We are a highly social species uniquely equipped to connect with other people and doing so is better for us. Yet we so often choose to be unsocial. We avoid talking to the stranger who sits next to us. We are reluctant to express our gratitude to people we appreciate. Every day, we avoid opportunities to connect with strangers, neighbors, colleagues, friends, and family.

By missing those moments, we miss out on all the benefits of a more social life—one that is happier and healthier for everyone.

The habits and practices that Epley advocates are approachable. The beauty of this book is that small acts have an outsized impact on the most important parts of our lives.

Nicholas Eply is the John Templeton Keller Distinguished Service Professor of Behavior Science, and Director of the Roman Family Center for Decision Research, at the Chicago Booth School of Business. His research has been featured by the New York Times, Wall Street Journal, CNN, Wired, and National Public Radio, among many others, and has been funded by the National Science Foundation and the Templeton Foundation. His first book was Mindwise: Why we misunderstand what others think, believe, feel and want.

This program is sponsored in part by Orchard Nursery.