You can't build relationships alone. Whatever friendships, love relationships, or even work relationships are on the agenda, they all begin the same way—you need to be there and participate.

Consider it, you can't become friends with others unless you meet them. That's cliché, isn't it? How many times do we deprive ourselves of relating because we fear being rejected, embarrassed, or simply venturing out of our comfort zones? Social media can provide us with the illusion of relating, but genuine relationships require more than likes and comments—presence.

It's the same with dating. If you never ask anyone out, then how is anyone ever going to know you're interested in them? Attraction is wonderful, but it doesn't do anything. Somewhere along the way, you have to do something about it. Closed mouths don't feed, and closed hearts don't love.

Ask for What You Want—Then Actually Listen

That's where it all happens: asking is half the battle. Sure, it's guts to take the first step. To approach somebody, to request their time, their wisdom, or their love. But after you do that, what you do next can make or break the relationship. And that is listening.

One of the popular myths, particularly in sales or persuading cultures, is that the smooth talkers are the most influential. The ones who are always with the right words. And the reality? The most influential individuals are not the talkers—they are the listeners. Influence is insight, not airtime.

When you listen, you gain access to the other person's world. You understand what drives them, what scares them, and what is most important to them. And when someone knows they've been heard, they're more likely to open up, trust, and feel connected. It's a type of emotional gravity.

Listening Establishes Trust and Long-Term Influence

Let's be honest: most people never actually get heard on a daily basis. They're surrounded with opinion, advice, and noise. So when someone does listen, think, and respond on what they've spoken—not waiting patiently to get their turn to talk—that's remarkable. In a distracted world, being a good listener is a power move.

The magic is in the listening, whether you are attempting to close a sale, cultivate a friendship, or make it to a second date. You begin to see from both your and their points of view. And from that awareness comes a distinct advantage—not manipulation, but connection in a true sense.

Show Up. Speak Up. Then Shut Up (and Listen)

So, how do you actually do this? Simple formula:

1. Be brave. Go to that party, go to that event, and send that message.

2. Be brave and ask. Whether you're asking for time, help, a date, or a deeper conversation, be bold.

3. And then listen and stop. Not with an agenda. But with curiosity and care. All interaction begins with a moment of receptivity. But the follow-through—the quality of your listening—makes the moment meaningful. So sure, you can't get if you don't ask. But more, you can't develop relationships if you don't listen when you do. That's how influence is built. That's how interaction is established. That's how life is enriched.