Small talk, what?
Our tech skills have improved during the pandemic and this is something to celebrate! Our casual social skills might have gotten a little rusty though…
Have we forgotten the art of small talk? It’s more important than you think. Small talk helps us to focus and plan which improves our executive function skills. Small talk makes us happier and gives us a feeling of belonging.
How do we get started? Try these out just for fun:
- Ask about a shared topic or interest. For example, how long have you lived here?
- Ask open ended questions that allow for any topic in response: What have you been doing lately?
- Ask getting to know you questions: What do you do for exercise?
- Ask follow up questions: What got you interested in that hobby?
- Follow their lead: If someone is sharing something with you, respond with enthusiasm to their topic of interest.
- If you want to practice at home with your children, here are some helpful conversation starters.
Small talk has gotten a bad reputation in the past. Forbes explains the benefits succinctly here. Try it out, you might make a new friend!
Warm regards,
Valerie DeGraw
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