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I've studied friendship for 10 years: Use 5 phrases to befriend anyone—you'll 'spark meaningful connections'
"Modern Friendship" Anna Goldfarb shares the most effective questions that you can ask to build the foundation of an enduring friendship.
TL;DR
- Enduring friendships are built on mutual admiration and shared values, where individuals marvel at the world together.
- Asking 'What have you been obsessed with lately?' can reveal shared interests or lead to deeper conversation by showing interest.
- 'What keeps you busy?' is preferred over asking about work, as it focuses on passions and hobbies, avoiding potential judgment or awkwardness.
- Recommending something watched, read, or listened to acts as a 'bid' for emotional connection, similar to principles in long-term marriages.
- Inquiring about what makes someone laugh helps identify shared humor and sensibility, a key pillar of friendship.
- The question 'What do you wish more people knew about you?' encourages vulnerability and can lead to surprising and memorable conversations.