Keeping their distance

Not everyone embraces light socializing, though. Xiao Yao, a 21-year-old university student from Beijing, prefers real-world interactions over digital ones.

"I'm not fond of chatting on WeChat," she admits. "Every time I hear the notification, I feel anxious — especially if it's someone I don't know well."

For Xiao, true socializing means face-to-face conversations, where she can read emotions and connect on a deeper level. She values moments where she can engage without the distractions of screens. "With close friends, we meet for meals or hang out together. I prefer that over maintaining online chats."

However, she acknowledges that light socializing has its benefits. "It's about choosing what works for you. Some people don't have the time or energy for deep friendships. Light socializing makes relationships more manageable."

Her family's dynamic reflects different approaches to socializing. Her father, who works in a state-owned enterprise, views relationships as functional — based on resource exchange and professional networking. Her mother, in contrast, nurtures a small circle of friends with whom she shares personal experiences and hobbies.

Though she uses social media, Xiao's engagement is intentional. Rather than chatting aimlessly, she shares meaningful moments — such as a video about a musical performance she likes — that sparks conversations with like-minded people.

She also heads a student theater at her university, where she does rehearsals and performs with other students who share a love for the theater.

"In those cases, social media does help form real connections," she says. "But the most fulfilling relationships are the ones that happen when we put down our phones and truly engage with the world."

To celebrate her 21st birthday in February, Xiao hosted an in-person gathering with 20 friends. "It was about the here and now — not the virtual world," she says.