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By Colby Kultgen

The Power of Micro-Interactions, A Stretching Routine to Feel 10 Years Younger, and Unboring Questions

Read online / Read time: 4 minutes

A study everyone should know about

This note reminded me of one of my favorite studies.

The University of Chicago ran an experiment on this exact behavior, asking commuters on a train to do one simple thing:

Say a few words to the stranger next to them.​
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That’s it.
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Participants predicted this would be awkward, but it was actually the opposite:
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100% of attempts succeeded, and those who participated reported their commute felt significantly more positive than usual.
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It turns out these “micro-interactions” have more power than we realize.
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Chatting with a stranger on the train.
Complimenting someone on their outfit.
Thanking the bus driver as you get off.
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These small moments quietly shape how connected and satisfied we feel throughout the day.
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It’s funny—we as humans are terrible predictors of what will actually make us happy.
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We overestimate the awkwardness of reaching out to a stranger and underestimate how much a small exchange can brighten our mood.

Your challenge this week: Have a conversation with a stranger!

(If you don't know what to say, I suggest giving a simple compliment.)

A list of unboring questions to ask someone

My recent obsession:

Collecting "unboring" questions to ask someone.

Last week, I mentioned a set of conversation-starter playing cards I've been using with my friends and family.

It has since sent me down a bit of a rabbit hole.

Seeking out questions that unlock good stories, deeper conversations, and unexpected laughs.

Here are the best ones so far:

Reply to this email with your favorite "unboring" question to ask someone.

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A reminder to stop saving the good stuff

I think there's a deceptively powerful message here.

We keep waiting for “the right time” to use the good plates, say the words, or enjoy the things we already own.

We treat everyday life like a rehearsal for the “real” one that’s supposed to come later.

The reality: life rarely gives you the perfect moment.

The candle will sit unlit.
The book will gather dust.
The words will go unsaid.

The lesson is this: stop postponing joy.

Use the good plates. Say the thing. Take the trip. Wear the dress.

Stop saving everything for a future version of yourself.

Bring the good stuff into the present.

A stretching routine that is making me feel 10 years younger

Confession: I hate stretching.

It’s boring, it feels like it takes forever, and I’d rather be doing literally anything else.

But as someone who runs nearly every day, I know how important it is to keep me loose and injury-free.

That’s why this 5-minute routine has been a lifesaver.

I use it as a morning warm-up before runs or a nighttime cool down after long days.

Let me know what you think!

😂

Have a great week!

P.S. Reply telling me what resonated most this week!

(I read and respond to them all)

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