I was walking home recently along my usual route from the train station, lost in my own world with my headphones on and my head down. As I passed a woman getting out of her car, she simply looked at me, smiled, and went on her way in the opposite direction. It was such a simple, everyday moment, yet it had a strangely profound impact on me. I’m not sure why, but that small gesture stirred something in me—something I hadn’t felt in what seems like a lifetime.

As commuters, we often keep to ourselves, heads down, plugged into our devices, comfortable in our own isolated bubbles. People are everywhere around us, yet we rarely acknowledge each other, choosing to stay in our comfort zones. I’ve always thought I was fine being in my own space, but I’m starting to question if it’s just that I’ve lost touch with why I feel the way I do. When I feel angry or sad, I’m not sure why—it just feels like that’s “normal.” And a simple interaction, like smiling at a stranger, has seemed daunting—maybe because I assume they also want to be left alone. But I’m beginning to realize that this doesn’t have to be my default.

Since that day, I’ve made an effort to look up, to smile at passing commuters, to walk my dog without headphones, and to chat with people at the dog park. I’ve started holding the elevator door open for others instead of instinctively pressing the close button (yes, I’ve been that person—sorry to anyone I might’ve shut out!). This may sound like rambling, but I really want to stress how refreshing it feels to connect, even briefly, with the people around us. You’re not bothering someone by asking what they’re reading or if their dog has separation anxiety at the park.

Next time, try looking up and embracing the simple joy of being alive. I’ve found that thinking about myself smiling makes my face feel different—lighter, happier, maybe even better looking. Let’s all look out for each other in these small ways.