Rapidly developing technology is like a coin with two sides. On the one hand, it offers us abundant information and the ability to communicate with others worldwide. On the other hand, it lures us into self-absorption and makes us seek validation through social media, likes, shares, and retweets. And oh, how ironic it is – one might have thousands of likes and feel as alone as ever.

Ubuntu is a South African philosophy deeply rooted in respect and interconnectedness. It beckons us to turn our gaze outward and recognize the shared humanity in others. If we acknowledge the worth of other people, it becomes almost impossible to treat them wrong. Everyone else is just as much of an individual as we are, and they deserve as much respect as we do. Here, everyone deserves honor and dignity by default, regardless of their background.

Ubuntu starkly contrasts the Western mindset, which actively encourages us to compare ourselves to others. We pick apart strangers’ lives, trying to discover what it is that makes them happier and better. But it’s all just a shared illusion fostered by social media constantly and relentlessly highlighting our perceived deficiencies.

Ubuntu pushes us to shift our perspective. Rather than comparing yourself to others and putting them against you, focus on the good that others bring you. Remember, they aren’t your opponents in the race of life. It’s just a slight change in perspective, but it’s certain to have a positive effect. Instead of constantly comparing, you will feel connected to the people around you. And it’s not as hard as it might seem.

An easy starting point is maintaining eye contact during interactions. Try it for yourself the next time you’re out running errands. Perhaps look in the eyes of the employee bagging your groceries at the checkout line or smile at the person holding the door for you. Those people are contributing to your life in their own way. Whether that contribution is big or small, try to see it as something meaningful – because, well, it is.