1-Minute Wednesday No. 186: Uncovering the Power of “Weak Ties”

Design A Life That Really Matters

When you think about your most important connections, your mind likely goes to your family, close friends, and colleagues. And rightfully so.? But that’s not to say that weaker connections aren’t important, too - on the contrary. Our loose connections or “weak ties” play an essential role in living a fulfilling life.?

In seminal research conducted over 50 years ago, Dr. Mark Granovetter found that a person’s weak ties?were more helpful than strong ones in finding a job. Indeed, that is truer today than ever before. Consider LinkedIn, which is built on the foundation of this idea.

But weak ties matter beyond work.?Recent research demonstrates a strong network of weak ties improves our emotional well-being and sense of belonging. Our trips to the grocery store, chatting with other parents at our children’s soccer game, and borrowing a missing ingredient from a next-door?neighbor all help to establish this network of weak ties and enrich our lives.?

How can you strengthen your weak ties?

Try the 5-Minute Favor .

As championed by Adam Rifkin, the 5-Minute Favor is?a small favor you do for someone in your loose network without expecting?a return. For example:

• Introduce two people who can help each other
• Promote someone’s event or business on social media
• Share a helpful article or resource with a coworker
• Buy a coffee or a snack for a neighbor or friend

By embracing the strength of weak ties, you open doors to a world of unforeseen opportunities and insights. So start small, but start today. The edge you’re seeking in your personal and professional life may well be at the edge of your network.?

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Listen

Dive deeper into the science behind the strength of weak ties.? Explore the outsized impact of our seemingly casual interactions on our everyday lives.? Discover the benefits of stepping out of your comfort zone to engage with a broad range of individuals, thereby harnessing the strength of weak ties.?

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Learn

Pay It Forward With The Five-Minute Favor

The idea behind the 5-Minute Favor is that you should be willing to do something for anyone if it takes 5 minutes or less. In this article, co-authored by Adam Rifkin, learn to make this powerful strategy a part of your everyday life.? ?

Weekly Wisdom

“The greatest compliment that was ever paid me was when one asked me what I thought, and attended to my answer.”? –? Henry David Thoreau

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