The Minimalists are Emmy-nominated Netflix stars and New York Times–bestselling authors Joshua Fields Millburn and Ryan Nicodemus. Alongside their podcast cohost, T.K. Coleman, this simple-living trio helps millions of people eliminate clutter and live meaningfully with less. Learn More.

Greet Them with a Hug

By The Minimalists

When’s the last time you hugged a stranger?

Next time someone goes to shake your hand, why not greet them with a hug instead? How will it change your interaction with that person? What will it say about you? How will it make you feel? How will it make them feel?

You’ll likely attend a few holiday functions, community gatherings, and family get-togethers in the coming months, which means you’ll meet plenty of new people—and you’ll have oodles of chances to dish out hugs.

Every hug is an opportunity to connect in a memorable, meaningful way because a hug removes the unconscious barriers we surround ourselves with each day. Plus, hugs are free and transferable. Pass it on.