London bus drivers have revealed that their wellbeing is significantly improved when passengers acknowledge and greet them, but new data shows that only 23% of people actually do so. Research conducted by a team of psychologists from the University of Sussex and Transport for London (TFL) found that small interactions like saying “good morning” or “thank you” to the bus driver can have a positive impact on their happiness and job satisfaction, making them feel respected and appreciated.
To encourage more passengers to greet their bus driver, a pilot project was conducted, installing signs on the driver cab door and exit doors of over 150 buses in Hammersmith. The signs posed questions like “Who can say ‘hello’ first?” and “A ‘thanks’ or ‘hey’ can make my day.” The project resulted in a 7% increase in passengers greeting the driver compared to buses without signs. This equates to a potential 140 million more interactions in a year.
The significance of these small interactions is highlighted by the testimonies of bus drivers. One driver, with 14 years of experience, shared that a simple “thank you” from a passenger, especially a young person, can completely change their mood. It’s a gesture that acknowledges and appreciates their work.
Dr. Gillian Sandstrom, a Senior Lecturer in the Psychology of Kindness at the University of Sussex, emphasizes the importance of these micro-interactions: they are well-received and more meaningful than we realize. The fact that a simple sticker on a bus can encourage people to greet the driver suggests that people want to connect with others but may feel unsure about doing so.
Following the success of the pilot project, Neighbourly Lab, a social connection enterprise involved in the trial, plans to roll out the intervention across wider bus networks. Grainne O’Dwyer, a senior program manager from Neighbourly Lab, describes these small daily interactions as valuable and powerful. It’s a reminder to look up from our phones and engage with those around us, even with a brief smile or greeting during our daily routines.
Dr. Sandstrom explains that humans have a fundamental need to belong and suffer emotionally and physically when feeling disconnected. While close relationships play a significant role, minimal social interactions with people like bus drivers or baristas at a coffee shop can also make a difference in helping us feel connected to our community. It’s important to pay attention to these opportunities for micro-interactions that can make both ourselves and others feel good and more human.
Denial of responsibility! VigourTimes is an automatic aggregator of Global media. In each content, the hyperlink to the primary source is specified. All trademarks belong to their rightful owners, and all materials to their authors. For any complaint, please reach us at – [email protected]. We will take necessary action within 24 hours.
