As more people around the world are vaccinated, we'll return to the pleasures of face-to-face and frequent social interactions. A recent Washington Post article by Galadriel Watson highlights 12 tips ( top 5 repeated below) for getting back into meaningful conversations, after a year of giving and receiving responses such as, "Not much new here" or "Same old, same old."
Have fun, listen, learn and enjoy the flow of an engaging two-way conversation with a friend, family member, or a casual acquaintance. Let's celebrate verbal curiosity and respect, while we continue to stay well!
-1-
FIND COMMON GROUND - something that affects everyone.
-2-
BE OBSERVANT and CURIOUS about the person you are speaking with.
-3-
LOOK FORWARD to upcoming events.
-4-
DO SOMETHING DIFFERENT, so you have a new topic to share - maybe
a new book or hiking trail.
-5-
CUT OUT DISTRACTIONS. Turn off your alerts and, if in person, put your cellphone out of sight.