Aziz Ismail Ansari is an actor, comedian and filmmaker popularly known for his portrayal of Tom Haverford on the television series Parks and Recreation. He has created and starred in the Netflix show, Master of None, and has juggled his screen commitments with a flourishing career in stand-up.
With his writing skills earning him two Primetime Emmy awards over the years, Ansari also brought his talent to the pages with his 2015 book Modern Romance: An Investigation. To celebrate the man on his birthday, February 23, 2983, today’s quote of the day is borrowed from his book:
“Your most casual encounter could lead to something bigger, so treat those interactions with that level of respect.”
What does the quote mean?
While Aziz Ansari broke out on stage with high-energy observational humour, over the years, his comedy style has become richer, with more intimate, introspective, and mature storytelling.
This has been reflected in Modern Romance: An Investigation, a research book that he authored with American sociologist and New York University professor Eric Klinenberg. The subject of the book is the change in romantic society that has taken place in the last decade.
One of the main ideas shared in the book is the paradox of choice in relationships. While modern technology has seemingly provided individuals with more options, a case can be made that it has ultimately made settling for a partner significantly more difficult.
Even when we agree to the paradox, it is undeniable that individuals have greater opportunities for chance encounters in the present day. And it is impossible to know which of them will go the distance ahead of time. As such, the statement suggests that we should be treating every encounter by the potential it represents and not its momentary stature.
The quote is not just about romance. While stories on LinkedIn often paint an extremely exaggerated version of it, connecting with new people often leads to the opening up of unexpected doors, even when it comes to professional or social prospects. Interpreted within this framework, the quote suggests that it is important to take time and give importance to even casual connections.
Relevance of the quote today
Social interactions in the present day are increasingly being limited to screens. The popularity of texting has made it easier for people to keep a conversation on hold and respond at their own time. Meanwhile, with social media, individuals get in the habit of distilling every idea into simple, bite-sized modules.
Neither habit is helpful when it comes to enhancing a personal encounter with another individual. As such, it would do well to be mindful during such times, so that one can strive to make every interaction deliver on its potential.
