Subscribe to The ZAO Newsletter
>500 subscribers
Subscribe to The ZAO Newsletter
>500 subscribers
Share Dialog
Share Dialog
Good morning, happy Wednesday in the Year of the ZAO: Day 35.
Smile at Strangers, Look into Their Eyes, and Say Hello
In a world where distractions pull us in every direction, simple human connection is becoming rare. Have you ever noticed how little eye contact we make with strangers? Maybe it’s hesitation, maybe it’s habit—but what if we changed that?
According to Don't Sweat the Small Stuff, there’s a deep connection between our openness to others and our own inner peace. Those who move through the world with their heads down, avoiding interaction, rarely feel a sense of joy or belonging. On the other hand, a small gesture—a smile, eye contact, or a kind word—can shift not just someone else’s day, but your own mindset.
This isn’t about forcing yourself to be outgoing or pretending to be something you're not. It’s about recognizing the humanity in others, understanding that we’re all just navigating life the best we can. The more we acknowledge that, the more we feel connected to something bigger than ourselves.
So today, as you move through your day, take a second to see people. A small moment of presence can create a big shift.
BetterCallZaal from the ZAO Team.
Good morning, happy Wednesday in the Year of the ZAO: Day 35.
Smile at Strangers, Look into Their Eyes, and Say Hello
In a world where distractions pull us in every direction, simple human connection is becoming rare. Have you ever noticed how little eye contact we make with strangers? Maybe it’s hesitation, maybe it’s habit—but what if we changed that?
According to Don't Sweat the Small Stuff, there’s a deep connection between our openness to others and our own inner peace. Those who move through the world with their heads down, avoiding interaction, rarely feel a sense of joy or belonging. On the other hand, a small gesture—a smile, eye contact, or a kind word—can shift not just someone else’s day, but your own mindset.
This isn’t about forcing yourself to be outgoing or pretending to be something you're not. It’s about recognizing the humanity in others, understanding that we’re all just navigating life the best we can. The more we acknowledge that, the more we feel connected to something bigger than ourselves.
So today, as you move through your day, take a second to see people. A small moment of presence can create a big shift.
BetterCallZaal from the ZAO Team.
Zaal Panthaki
Zaal Panthaki
6 comments
BetterCallZaal’s post for the ZAO Team highlights a mindful Christmas Eve lesson: let others have the glory, listen, and stay present. Releasing ego reduces interruptions and reveals quiet confidence—calm energy that lets stories shine. The message invites giving space for others to shine. @zaal
ZM yesterday felt like real momentum. AMA 4 into ZAO Fractal set the tone. we’re back on the Songjam leaderboard again today at 5 PM for AMA 5. appreciate everyone showing up and staying present. https://paragraph.com/@thezao/year-of-the-zao-day-357
We are live again 🔥
The blogpost outlines a Monday in the ZAO world: a ZABAL AMA at 5 PM EST, followed immediately by the ZAO Fractal to share contributions. The piece notes that momentum comes from steady attendance and showing up with one honest contribution, even if unfinished. Reported by @zaal.
ZM builders know this tension well — shipping while protecting your inner calm. The work keeps coming. The practice is staying human while you build. https://paragraph.com/@thezao/year-of-the-zao-day-352
Year of the ZAO: Day 35 is here. Lesson of the day from Don't Sweat the Small Stuff: Smile at strangers, look into their eyes, and say hello. A small moment of presence can create a big shift. In a world of distractions, let’s make space for real connection. Full read: https://paragraph.xyz/@thezao/year-of-the-zao-day-35 #YearOfTheZAO #Web3Community