How to Build Meaningful Relationships in a Fast-Paced World: Lessons from How to Know a Person

In today’s fast-paced, always-on world, it’s easy to lose sight of what truly matters: building meaningful relationships. Between work, family responsibilities, and never-ending notifications, we can unintentionally neglect the deep connections that bring us joy and purpose.

But here’s the truth—our relationships are the foundation of well-being. They nourish our emotional health, support our personal growth, and remind us that we’re not alone.

Recently, I read How to Know a Person by David Brooks, and it struck a chord. Brooks explores the art of truly seeing and understanding others—something we all crave but rarely prioritize. His insights felt beautifully aligned with the heart-centered, comforting principles of the hygge lifestyle. Below, I’m sharing some takeaways and how you can integrate them into your daily life to build deeper, more meaningful connections.

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Why Deep Relationships Matter More Than Ever

In our digital age, interactions often feel rushed, surface-level, or transactional. But knowing someone is about so much more. To build a meaningful relationship..

We must take time to understand the other person’s story—their fears, hopes, habits, and quirks. It’s being present enough to hold space for someone’s truth. And in a culture that encourages performance over presence, this kind of emotional intimacy is both rare and revolutionary.

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5 Practical Strategies to Build Meaningful Relationships

If you’re wondering how to deepen and build meaningful relationships in your everyday life, here are five actionable ideas inspired by How to Know a Person—and shaped by the warm, mindful rhythm of hygge living:

1. Practice Active Listening
Want to build trust and connection? Start by truly listening. Make eye contact, put your phone away, and respond with intention. When someone feels heard and sees you actively listening, they feel valued.

2. Ask Open-Ended Questions
Ditch the small talk. Instead of “Did you have a good day?” try:
👉 “What made you smile today?”
👉 “What’s been on your mind lately?”
These questions invite reflection and vulnerability—two key ingredients for deeper bonds. I commonly use A set of questions with my children: “What is your high, low, and buffalo (random) event of the day?” This acknowledges the ups and downs that can happen to us all and offers space to unpack them more.

3. Be Fully Present
In a multitasking world, full presence is a rare gift. When spending time with someone, whether a partner, friend, or child, offer your undivided attention. This small shift creates space for connection to flourish.

4. Share Your Vulnerabilities
Authentic and meaningful connection happens when we drop the mask. By sharing your own struggles, fears, or even funny mistakes, you create a safe space for others to do the same.

5. Lead with Empathy
Empathy is about meeting someone where they are—not where you think they should be. Before offering advice, take a moment to say:
👉 “That sounds really hard. I’m here with you.”
Empathy doesn’t fix; it affirms.

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How the Hygge Lifestyle Supports Meaningful Relationships

The Danish concept of hygge—coziness, comfort, and connection—beautifully complements Brooks’ vision for deeper human connection. It reminds us that joy often lives in the quiet moments: a flickering candle, a shared cup of tea, a heartfelt conversation at the kitchen table.

Here are a few ways to use hygge principles to nurture your relationships:

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4 Ways to Bring Hygge Into Your Relationships

1. Create a Cozy, Welcoming Space at Home
Your environment sets the tone for connection. Use these hygge-inspired ideas to design a home that fosters warmth and togetherness:

• Lighting: Use soft, warm lighting like candles, fairy lights, or low-glow lamps (browse our artisan candle collection for inspiration).
• Comfort: Incorporate soft textiles—think cozy throws, cushioned seating, and natural fibers.
• Natural Touches: Add wood, greenery, or handmade accents to create grounding, calming vibes.
• Personal Details: Frame meaningful photos, display travel mementos, or showcase handwoven baskets that tell your story.

2. Share Simple Moments
Hygge teaches us that joy doesn’t require grand gestures. Host a slow Sunday brunch, take a walk at golden hour, or sip tea together while watching the rain. These simple rituals invite connection without pressure.

3. Celebrate the Everyday
Pause to notice little things—birds chirping, warm muffins, your child’s laughter. Celebrating small joys creates a culture of appreciation and presence in your relationships.

4. Host Intentional, Intimate Gatherings
Deep relationships thrive in small, cozy settings. Host a candlelit dinner, a casual book club, or even a board game night. Keep it simple and welcoming, so guests feel at ease being themselves.

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Bringing It All Together: Relationships Rooted in Warmth and Intention

Building meaningful relationships doesn’t require more time—it requires more intention. By combining the practical strategies from How to Know a Person with the nurturing practices of hygge, we can create homes, conversations, and connections that feel like deep exhalations.

Let’s choose presence over perfection. Let’s make space for real conversations. Let’s build a life rooted in connection, one cozy moment at a time.

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Ready to Create a More Welcoming Home?
Explore our collection of hygge-inspired, handmade home goods—candles, textiles, wall art, and more—to set the tone for connection and comfort. Your home can be a place where relationships grow deeper, naturally.

👉 Shop the Collection at Hygge Abode
👉 Listen to The Hygge Nurse Podcast

Read other blog posts!

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