'How are you?' has lost all meaning. Here's a better way to greet people

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March 18, 2026 'How are you?' has lost all meaning. Here's a better way to greet people By Angela Haupt Editor, Health and Wellness When I pass people I know in the hall or on the street, I often smile and ask them how they are—without slowing down to hear the answer. Experts say we've turned what used to be a genuine inquiry into punctuation, and that matters more than you might think. Here's why, plus what to say instead. READ MORE » If you have a minute, please take our quick survey to help us better understand who you are and which health topics interest you most. Take the Survey WHAT ELSE TO READ A Full-Body MRI Scan Could Save Your Life. Or Ruin It Most medical experts are wary of the controversial scans.   11 Questions to Ask on a First Date We asked experts—including a 'Love Is Blind' success story—exactly what questions to ask on a date.   The Genetic Cholesterol That Can Impact Your Heart Health Have you had your Lp(a) levels checked lately?   If you were forwarded this and want to sign up to receive it daily, click here. Today's newsletter was written by Angela Haupt and edited by Mandy Oaklander.   Want more from TIME? Sign up for our other newsletters.         Subscribe to TIME TIME may receive compensation for some links to products and services in this email. Offers may be subject to change without notice. Connect with TIME via Facebook | X | Newsletters PRIVACY POLICY | YOUR CALIFORNIA PRIVACY RIGHTS Questions? Contact newsletters@time.com Update your email preferences or unsubscribe here © 2026 TIME USA, LLC. All rights reserved. TIME Customer Service, P.O. Box 37508 Boone, IA 50037-0508, United States Terms of Service