How to find happiness when we don’t have an emotional connection

I do have people that I talk to, I see friends and family a few times a week, but it’s just not a deep connection. It’s more like, going through the motions or I’m their listening ear, listening to their stories or their problems. Next thing you know it’s time to go home or the conversation is over and I’ve been a great support person but again, it’s so shallow to me. It’s just one step above small talk, it’s not rooted in connection. I have my friend that we talk about our kids, my friend who likes to talk about dogs, my sister who always has problems to talk about, or my parents, I love them but they just suck to talk to. I don’t walk away feeling like I really enjoyed the conversation or got much out of it. The socializing was fun and I enjoyed their company but it’s not satisfying the itch I have.

/r/Marriage Thread Parent