Are all silences awkward when 1:1?

[OrangeCrunch]

Hi,

So I was wondering this the other day, as I was out with a new friend and whereas we do get on well, there is the odd silence which does feel awkward and it got me wondering why. Is it just because we're still getting to know each other? A silence like this with an old friend or dp wouldn't feel awkward, I don't think 🤔

Anyway, just wanted your opinions. Are you comfortable with these kind of silences?

I think it depends who you're with. I've worked with a colleague for 20 years, our silences aren't awkward at all. A new colleague has joined us and she obviously finds them difficult as she just has to fill them. It comes with time I think.

I think you either find silence awkward or you don't. I don't. I love silence. In the house I will usually opt for no telly, total quiet over inane background noise. Although sometimes I will choose music, I suppose.

I had a day out with someone I didn't know well a couple of months ago. I dropped it into conversation somewhere along the line that I struggle with small talk and don't find silence awkward. Sort of in a "this is how I am, but I know others aren't, I always hope its not perceived as stand off-ish" They agreed they were similar and I felt confident the rest of the day that we were both on the same page. If she had said she was the opposite, I would have known to try harder to engage (which I find mentally draining but can manage for the sake of politeness).

I realise not everyone would be comfortable putting things on the line in that way, but I'm generally OK with just setting the scene early in the hopes of having a more pleasant day from the off set.

@mynameismaybe, I like your approach 👍