Your colleagues like you more than you realise…

In this episode of Eat Sleep Work Repeat, host Bruce Daisley explores the transformative power of small, everyday interactions with strangers and colleagues, drawing on research from psychologist Gillian Sandstrom, author of Once Upon a Stranger. The conversation reveals a profound psychological phenomenon known as the 'liking gap'—where people consistently underestimate how much others enjoy their company, especially in casual or workplace settings. Daisley and Sandstrom discuss how these misjudgments contribute to workplace loneliness, reduced collaboration, and disengagement, despite the fact that such interactions consistently bring more joy than people expect. The episode emphasizes that talking to strangers—whether a barista, a coworker, or a fellow commuter—is not a waste of time but a vital source of connection, well-being, and even creativity. Sandstrom shares her personal journey from math and programming to psychology, inspired by a simple interaction with a hot dog vendor, and explains how these micro-connections build a sense of belonging and human dignity. The episode concludes with practical, low-pressure steps to start building these connections, from making eye contact to sharing brief, genuine conversations—even in moments of stress or fatigue. Key takeaways include: 1) People like you more than you think—especially in the workplace, where underestimating colleague approval reduces collaboration and initiative. 2) Small talk isn't trivial—it’s a gateway to emotional well-being, creativity, and team cohesion. 3) The most valuable connections often come from 'weak ties'—people we don’t know well but who offer fresh perspectives and new ideas. 4) Rejection from strangers is rare and less painful than imagined, and the fear of it is often self-created. 5) You don’t need to turn every interaction into a friendship—just showing up with warmth and curiosity is enough. The overall sentiment is deeply positive, encouraging listeners to reclaim human connection as a daily practice that enriches both personal and professional life.