Imagine how many hours you’ve spent sitting next to strangers on buses, trains and airplanes.Now, think back to the times when you’ve engaged in conversations with these strangers. It’s highly likely that you’ve only spoken to a tiny fraction of the thousands of people you’ve shared journeys with.
No wonder so many of us complain of loneliness and isolation. We’ve forgotten how to interact with people outside of our immediate colleagues, friends and family circles.
It doesn’t have to be this way, however. Let’s take a look at a simple technique that you can use to engage with strangers.
Break the ice with this quirky conversation starter
So, picture the scene… You’re sitting next to someone interesting and friendly-looking in a train carriage. The journey to your destination is hours and hours away. You could choose to stare out the window, read a book, or perhaps fall asleep.
But wait… Wouldn’t it be much more entertaining to start a conversation with your fellow traveler? Of course it would.
If you’re not comfortable with starting conversations with strangers (let’s face it, few of us are), then try this entertaining way to kick-start your social interaction:
1. Once settled into your journey
2. Take out a notepad and pencil
3. Then invite your co-traveler to play a game of tic-tac-toc!
This universally-known game is both fun and easy to play. Although you’re sure to take people by surprise when asking them to play against you – most people will be eager and enthusiastic to join you. And once you’ve played a few games of tic-tac-toe together, you’ll find yourself at ease with your competitor, and able to converse freely and confidently for the rest of your journey.
By using this simple, but unusual approach, you’ll be able to turn dull journeys into lively adventures. And most importantly, you’ll find that making friends can be easy and natural.
Featured photo credit: Cegoh via pixabay.com
