[inanutshellus]

The "Helping You Not Become Your Parents" commercials (from some insurance company I think) make me sad.

They're basically making fun of people for trying to connect.

I'm in a spot where I don't really bump into strangers much but, as a recovering introvert I've tried to talk to people like this and it feels AMAZING.

Like... irrational levels of amazing vibes.

It's so frustrating seeing my own kids be horrified by it and be hyper-introverted and disdainful of connecting with strangers.

Lessons you learn the hard way -- then fail to pass onto the next generation -- hurt.

[criddell]

> They're basically making fun of people for trying to connect.

I had the same thought. The clueless people turning into their parents are charming and genuine. The life coach guy is kind of a dick.

Reminds me of Apple's "I'm a PC, And I'm a Mac" ads from Apple. I always understood the point they were trying to make, but the PC character was so much more likable than the Mac.

[throwway120385]

The Mac guy was such a try-hard. "I'm cool and kind of edgy over here and you're just a dope for being sincere."

[ericmcer]

Talking to strangers is actually kind of nice as an introvert, there is very low pressure as you have no obligation to the person and you can end the conversation at any time.

I find it much nicer than talking to friends of friends or the absolute worst for me... the boyfriends of my girlfriends friends. You are getting shoved together into a forced interaction that you know will be asked about in the near future.

[3acctforcom]

This is why I love IT conferences. I can chat up random strangers about topics that we're clearly both interested in. The vendors also send the most extroverted folks who are skilled in engaging introverted nerds. It's a great way for introverts to level up their social skills.

And the best part is that I never talk to those folks again ;) I found out that I actually really like making fast friends, I just hate the obligation of long-term close-knit friendships.