Small talk topics are good conversation starters between people who don't know each other well. If you live with social anxiety disorder (SAD), making small talk can be anxiety-provoking.

Introverts tend to dread small talk. They worry that it will be boring, awkward, or that they’ll run out of things to say. But in today’s world, small talk is difficult to avoid. Cocktail parties, networking events, and even the line for coffee at work may require a brief exchange of pleasantries.

Many introverts would be surprised to discover that small talk doesn’t have to be painful. By learning a few simple techniques, you can polish your conversational skills and make a positive impression.

to dread= бояться

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1.  Reduce anxiety.

Introverts may approach small talk with anxiety, ranging from slight apprehension to debilitating dread. To curb your anxiety, stay rational and positive.

• “The anxiety is coming from me and my beliefs, not the situation. I can do this.”
• “What’s the worse that can happen? If they don’t like me, so what?”
• “Just because [XYZ] happened in the past, doesn’t mean it will happen again.”

apprehension= опасение

debilitating= ослабляющий

to curb your anxiety= обуздать свою тревогу

• "Everyone needs someone to talk to at networking events. If I strike up a conversation with that person, he or she will probably be glad to have someone to talk to."
• "Labels don't define me. I'm an interesting, worthy person with a lot to contribute."
• “I will reward myself with a quiet evening on the couch, watching my favorite movie.”

2. Be purposeful.

Thoughts tend to be self-fulfilling. If you approach small talk with the belief that it will be dull and pointless, it probably will. Instead of dwelling on negative thoughts (“I’m awful at this,” “I hate small talk,” or “when can I go home?”), remind yourself that small talk isn't superficial. Small talk serves an important purpose - it helps build the foundation for authentic conversations and deeper relationships down the road.

**self-fulfilling=**материализующийся

to dwell on= зацикливаться

3.  Channel your curiosity.

Introverts tend to be curious people. They love digging deep, delving into topics that interest them, and learning what makes people tick. Channel your natural curiosity into small talk. When you ask “how are you?” or “how was your weekend?”, approach the conversation with genuine interest. Carefully listen to the other person, and provide a thoughtful response. If you show true interest, you’ll invite further discussion and set a positive tone for future interactions.