In a new city, the fastest way to belong somewhere is to become a regular somewhere.

Belonging is built out of repetition in one place rather than exposure to many. Going to the same cafe, gym or Tuesday practice enough times turns strangers into people who nod, and nodding turns into talking without anybody deciding it should. Breadth gives you a wide collection of first conversations and nothing that deepens.

Choose one place in your week and go to it on the same day for a month. Sit in the same spot and learn one person’s name. Depth in a single place does more than six interesting outings.