The other day I was running late for work. Of course. And just when I went through the glass door I saw the elevator almost leaving. I ran like I’ve never ran before, like I had wings on my feet.

You see, working in the 35^th floor you have to take on the opportunity of a lift with room for just one more person. Otherwise, you may fall in the doomed 10 minute waiting agony and the floor-by-floor-stopping journey.

Yup, it’s not a good thing to let the elevator leave without you.

So you can imagine my reaction when I could squeeze in and catch the immediate ride to my working place. I rose my arms in sign of victory and then let them fall as I hissed a “Yes!”.

Then, of course, the anonymous silent laugh took place, followed by the awkward silence.  All I could say was “Good morning”, kept my eyes on the changing number on the screen and let my imagination gloat on the idea of getting to laugh and joke with 10 total strangers in this very reduced space.

After exchanging giggles everyone would start talking about soccer (of course) or asking each other’s names and professions. Maybe someone would meet the love of their life or their greatest friend ever.

Loves reaches all corners and every gigantic moving steel cube, but do we even recognize our infinite chances to embrace it?

So I have decided to start a little project. Since I ride the elevator several times a day, I’m going to take every opportunity to meet my companionship by following these tips:

Always say good morning or good afternoon when stepping into the elevator and have a great day when stepping out

Start small talk, anything from the weather to whatever breaking news is in the atmosphere

Get to know one thing about my interlocutor besides his/her name

Enjoy the ride. Completely forget about the close door button. We’ll get there

Try to keep the conversation outside the elevator. Keep in touch

I will keep you informed of how these actions have made a difference.   

Lift my spirit by sharing your opinions in the comment section below.

See more posts by Emma Sifuentes

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@Office