This doesnt mean you cant talk to people, though.
You just have to learn to do it a little differently.
People will love you for this.
The questions can be about literally anything within reason.
At a party with strangers?
Ask them about their work.
Ask your coworker about their weekend.
Ask your friend about the party they went to the other night.
Some more general conversational tips are good to keep in mind here, too.
Look for common ground where you might, and when in doubt, shower your companion with compliments.
Set a good tone and keep it there, even as you maneuver your way out of sharing.
But…what if someone DOES ask me a question?
(Hows the job hunt going?
Dating anyone interesting?)
And this is actually a good thing!
If youre insistent that no one ever lobs an inquiry back, youll seem very weird.
Instead, heres where the power of deflection really come into play.
You have a few options.
Depending on the circumstance, you might find that its possible to simply not answer.
Instead, try inserting a follow-up to whatever subject you were just talking about.
Lets call this The Double-Down Reversal because it sounds cool as hell.
Voila, youre back in control.
Alternatively, youcananswer the question without actually answering the question.
Oh its fine, though Ive gotta say, all the train issues have beenkilllllling meeeelatelyWTF, MTA!
Whats going on with you and Dave?
Not a lot to report!
Though we did just seemother!hey let me spoil it for you.
Hey, you know who seems really happy?
Do you follow her on Twitter?
(By the way, what did you think ofStranger Things?
Thank God its coming back!)
On occasion, someone might really pry you for information or even catch onto your slick, avoidant ways.
Oh, theres always someone who is feeling dramatic about something.
Theres honestly more drama happening between me and my cat at any given moment.
In fact, let me show you a photo.
Because you know, people love it when you do that.
Unless youre talking to another cagey person.
Then I cant help you.
