How to practice social savoring

To practice social savoring, Jamil Zaki suggests focusing on appreciating positive social interactions as they happen. This involves consciously observing and discussing the good qualities and behaviors of others during social moments. Here are steps to practice social savoring:

1. Savor Sensory Moments: Engage in activities where you can focus on the good aspects of the experience. For example, have an "ice cream eating class" or a "sunset watching class" where you discuss and appreciate the sensory details of the moment like texture, flavor, and visuals 1.

2. Practice Positive Gossip: Share positive observations about people in your life. Instead of focusing on negative interactions (e.g., someone cutting you off in traffic), highlight those who display polite behavior. This can help shift your mindset and those around you towards positivity 1.

3. Mindset Shift: Become skeptical of cynicism and adopt a reciprocity mindset. Recognize how your positive actions and trust can influence others to reciprocate, leading to a virtuous cycle of positive interactions 2.

By incorporating these practices, you can enhance your appreciation of social interactions and foster a more positive outlook on the people and experiences around you.